São Paulo vs Nacional Prediction: The Brazilians are the favorites

After a goalless draw in the first leg, São Paulo and Nacional will meet again to decide who will qualify for the Copa Libertadores quarterfinals. The Paulistas did a good result in Montevideo and have everything they need to progress in the competition.

São Paulo

The Tricolor lost the derby with Palmeiras 2-1, with a goal conceded in the last minute of stoppage time. The champion playing at home took the lead through Flaco López in the 52nd minute, but Luciano equalized for São Paulo twenty minutes later with a low shot from outside the area. Luciano received a red card in the 96th minute, and Palmeiras had the strength to clinch victory, with Flaco again scoring with a header after a mistake by goalkeeper Rafael. Zubeldía's team dropped to sixth place in the table and is eight behind leader Botafogo. The Paulistas will now focus on the Copa Libertadores and their victory over Nacional. The club has won the competition three times in its history and aims to lift the trophy again.

Nacional

The Decano drew 3-3 away to River Plate in the opening round of the Torneo Clausura. The Montevideo derby was thrilling, with Nacional leveling the score in the 96th minute after conceding 3-2 in the 93rd minute. The team will now focus on the crucial game in São Paulo for the Copa Libertadores after the 0-0 in the first leg. Nacional is the underdogs, but anything is possible, with another draw leading to a penalty shootout. 

Expert Betting Tips

In the five times the two clubs have met, Nacional has never won. São Paulo has won three and drawn two, the last a week ago in the first leg. Ferreira and Lanza suffered nasty injuries in the derby with Palmeiras and won't be playing anytime soon. São Paulo is the favorite to advance to the quarter-finals but must demonstrate it on the pitch. The Uruguayans are very tough and won't make it easy. A draw at the end of the match will take the game to penalties, as there is no extra time. I'm backing the Brazilians to win.