BTN News: Boca Juniors and Red Bull Bragantino secured favorable positions in the Copa Sudamericana-2024 playoffs with solid away draws against their Ecuadorian opponents. These results set the stage for decisive home matches that could propel them into the round of 16.
Boca Juniors Stand Strong Despite Key Absences
Boca Juniors, despite missing key players like Uruguayan forward Edinson Cavani, managed a goalless draw against Independiente Del Valle in Quito. The match took place at the Banco Guayaquil Stadium, situated at a challenging altitude of 2,850 meters above sea level. Boca’s resilience was evident, with Uruguayan striker Miguel Merentiel stepping up as a significant contributor. The match saw Del Valle, known for their reputation as ‘giant killers’ in recent years, fail to capitalize on several scoring opportunities. The return leg in Buenos Aires will be critical, with the winner advancing to the round of 16 and gaining a potential favorite status for the title.
Bragantino and Barcelona Share the Spoils
In another Ecuadorian city, Guayaquil, Barcelona SC hosted Red Bull Bragantino in a 1-1 draw. Bragantino’s Helinho opened the scoring in the 18th minute, but Janner Corozo equalized for Barcelona in the 31st minute. This result leaves Barcelona under pressure as they prepare for the return leg in Brazil, where Bragantino will look to leverage their away goal advantage.
Libertad Takes Command in Asunción
Libertad of Paraguay emerged victorious in their first playoff match, defeating Ecuador’s Universidad Católica 2-0 in Asunción. Goals from veteran Oscar Cardozo (49th minute) and Lucas Sanabria (74th minute) secured the win for the home side. Libertad will aim to maintain their lead in the second leg in Ecuador to confirm their place in the round of 16.
Key Results from the Week’s Matches
Tuesday Matches:
- Huachipato (CHI) vs. Racing (URU): Huachipato narrowly lost to Racing with a score of 2-3 in Concepción.
- Rosario Central (ARG) vs. Internacional (BRA): Rosario Central secured a 1-0 victory over Internacional in Rosario.
Wednesday Matches:
- Libertad (PAR) vs. Universidad Católica (ECU): Libertad won 2-0 at home.
- Barcelona (ECU) vs. Red Bull Bragantino (BRA): The match ended in a 1-1 draw.
- Independiente Del Valle (ECU) vs. Boca Juniors (ARG): The teams played to a 0-0 draw.
Upcoming Thursday Matches:
- Palestino (CHI) vs. Cuiabá (BRA) in Concepción.
- Liga de Quito (ECU) vs. Always Ready (BOL) in Quito.
- Cerro Porteño (PAR) vs. Athletico Paranaense (BRA) in Asunción.
Analysis and Future Outlook
The results from these matches indicate tight contests ahead in the second legs. Boca Juniors and Bragantino have positioned themselves well with their away draws, setting up exciting home encounters. Libertad’s commanding home win gives them a strong advantage, but the battle isn’t over yet as they head to Ecuador for the return leg. With so much at stake, the upcoming matches promise to deliver high drama and competitive football.
In conclusion, the Copa Sudamericana playoffs are heating up, with teams fighting hard for a spot in the round of 16. Boca Juniors and Bragantino, in particular, have shown resilience and strategic prowess, setting the stage for thrilling home matches that could decide their fate in the tournament. Fans can expect more intense action and surprising outcomes as the competition progresses.
