Cerro vs Union Espanola Predictions, Betting Tips and Match Previews

Despite having a rather disappointing Uruguay Primera Division Torneo Clausura round last season, Cerro’s Apertura performance did result in them finishing an impressive 3rd in the aggregate table and as such qualify for the opening stages of the Copa Libertadores.

This is the first time they have taken part in the competition since 2010, when they made it all the way to the group stages before finishing 3rd and being eliminated. This is only their third time appearing in the competition, and they will be looking to take advantage of their home status in the first leg.

Cerro’s season did end a bit more promisingly than was expected after a bit of a poor spell. They lost their final game against River Plate but have won two and drawn two of their last five outings. At home they have won just one of their last nine matches though, losing five times in the process.

This will give Union Espanola some hope of getting something from this match. They ended their season with a penalty victory over O’Higgins to seal their qualification to the Copa Libertadores and extend their unbeaten streak to three games.

Away from home they have a rather promising record as well with seven wins, five draws, and just two defeats in their last 14 matches in all competitions. Even in the Copa Libertadores they tend to do well on the road.

The last time Union Espanola took part in this competition was in 2014 where they made it through the group stages, leaving them with a record of two wins, four draws, and two defeats in their eight games that season. Away from home they were unbeaten in the Copa Libertadores though, so they certainly travel well.

With this being a first leg tie I think Union Espanola would be more than happy with a draw, and I don’t see Cerro being able to get the win against them either, considering their overall record away from home. Three of Union Espanola’s last four away days in the Copa Libertadoes ended all square, as have three of Cerro’s last seven on home soil in all competitions. This makes odds of 23/10 for a Draw look good value, so I’m backing that alongside a 1-1 correct score predictions at 11/2.