LDU Quito vs Vasco da Gama Predictions, Betting Tips and Match Previews

Wednesday’s Copa Sudamericana second round, first leg clash sees Ecuadorians LDU Quito playing host to Brazilians Vasco. The home side will be looking to make full use of the high altitude factor in order to open up an advantage going into the second leg.

It’s been a good year for LDU so far and it would only get better should they be able to advance from this tie. The side have already seen off Bolivians Guabira to reach this point of the competition but most impressive has been their domestic performances, with Los Albos winning the opening stage of league action after collecting an impressive 46 points from 22 matches.

Nonetheless, after losing 2-0 at home to Deportivo Cuenca after wrapping up the opening phase, as well as having lost 2-0 away at Delfin in the weekend’s closing phase opener, Pablo Repetto’s troops will have to improve if they are to secure the result they want in this one. Recent showings have not been impressive but a home record that reads 8 wins from the last 10 fixtures will leave confidence high all the same.

Meanwhile, Vasco drop into the Sudamericana following a poor showing in the Libertadores, finishing 3rd with just 5 points in a group containing Racing, Cruzeiro and Universidad de Chile. The Brazilians showed very little quality over the 6 games contested in that group but will be hoping to make a better fist of the Sudamericana.

It’s not an easy start by any means and this trip to Quito will test Vasco to the maximum, set to be played over 2,600 metres above sea level. Vasco have already suffered once with altitude this year, losing 4-0 at Bolivians Wilstermann in a Libertadores qualifier and an away record that reads 7 straight defeats in Sudamericana action hardly provides a reason for optimism prior to arrival either.

Ultimately, whilst LDU’s performance levels have dropped in their recent matches, a big continental match should see them regain their focus and they simply have to make home advantage count, with Vasco big favourites in the second leg.

The bet that really stands out is for LDU to win to nil. Given the gruelling conditions that await them, Vasco are not expected to show much attacking intent and will simply be looking to remain in the tie. That should see LDU dominate proceedings and having won a staggering 15 of their last 17 Sudamericana home games, we think they’ll be able to secure victory, with a 1-0 full time score on the cards.