Palmeiras vs Bolivar

Allianz Parque forms the backdrop for a top-table 2023 Copa Libertadores Group C six-pointer between Palmeiras and Bolivar.

Although an underwhelming 3-1 defeat at Bolivar in a curtain-raising Group C fixture suggested Palmeiras’ bid to reach the Copa Libertadores knockout stages could go down to the wire, the Brazilians have played down such fears in thumping fashion. Abel Ferreira’s men have since won all four continental match-ups by an aggregate score of 11-3, including a comprehensive 4-2 home triumph over Barcelona SC on Gameweek 5. Unfortunately, they followed that result with a stomach-wrenching 1-0 defeat to Botafogo, ending an otherwise impeccable home record across all competitions in 2023 (W16, D3). That loss also marked Palmeiras’ first scoring blank on home turf since a scoreless draw against Sao Paulo in January, testifying to their outstanding scoring prowess at the Allianz Parque.

Meanwhile, Bolivar will take this trip in a buoyant mood following a comfortable 3-0 home win over domestic rivals Santa Cruz last weekend. Like their hosts, Benat San Jose’s lads have already claimed a place in the Copa Libertadores knockout stages courtesy of an impressive record of four wins from five Group C matches (L1). Since a day-two loss at Barcelona (1-2), the visitors have won three continental games in succession, netting seven goals and conceding none in return. Considering Bolivar boast a superior goal difference to Palmeiras, even a point would catapult them into the knockout stages as Group C winners, even though the upcoming foes sit level on points. However, a poor run of four defeats across their last seven competitive travels (W1, D2) means they must be cautious.