Atletico Paranaense vs Universidad Catolica Predictions, Betting Tips and Match Previews

Atletico Paranaense have already made a good start to their Libetadores campaign, having had to fight for a place in the groups. They first saw Colombian side Millonarios off on penalties, following a 1-1 draw on aggregate. Two weeks ago they survived a late Deportivo Capiata onslaught to advance to this stage, knocking out the Paraguayan outfit 4-3 on aggregate after a 3-3 home draw and 1-0 win away.

Atletico have been giving little importance to domestic State League football, fielding mostly reserve teams and focusing on the Libertadores. That helps to explain why they lie 8th out of 12, in a league in which rivals Coritiba are the only other top flight side. Said reserves were in action again over the weekend, as the side lost 1-0 away at Foz Do Iguacu.

Universidad Catolica make their return to the Libertadores following a four year absence after last season’s fantastic league win. They did appear in last year’s Sudamericana, but it was a short lived appearance as they crashed out in the first round to Bolivians Real Potosi.

Catolica have made a poor start to their title defence. They’ve lost the last four after winning the opening game and already look well off the pace. The loss of Nicolas Castillo up top is being felt hard, with new man Santiago Silva struggling to fit in and being criticised by fans for his supposed lack of fitness.  The most morale damaging defeat of the season came at the weekend, as they lost the derby with Colo Colo by a score of 2-0.

Both sides find themselves very unfortunate to be placed in a group with Flamengo and Argentine side San Lorezno. In some of the competitions other groups you’d fancy them to qualify for the knockout phase but as it is they look like outsiders. That makes this match all the more important.

Atletico have a truly fantastic home record. In last years Serie A domestic campaign, they lost only 1 home tie, winning 15 of the 19 games contested on home soil. That’s continued into this year, with the side undefeated at home in both Libertadores home ties and in the State League.

With Catolica low on morale and in poor form, it’s very hard to see them taking anything from one of the continents most tricky away trips at the moment. Catolica have lost all three away games they’ve contested this year and look very likely to lose here yet again. The hosts know how crucial an early win is here, and with the backing of a packed out arena should have enough to get it. The price on the home win is fair and is certainly worth backing.