Universitario vs Botafogo Prediction: Both teams need the three points

There's a big game on the way in Lima, with two teams fighting to qualify for the knockout stage. LDU Quito and Junior Barranquilla have already played in this Copa Libertadores round, and the Colombians won 1-0 in Ecuador, taking a big step towards qualification. Junior leads the group with nine points, followed by Botafogo and Universitario with six and five points, respectively. In last place is LDU Quito with four points. Any team can still qualify, but if the Brazilians win this match against Universitario, they will qualify along with Junior.

Universitario

The Monumental will have at least 40.000 fans in the stands to support the Merengues in a decisive match that will define the future of the Peruvians and Brazilians in the Copa Libertadores. Botafogo will have to overcome a hot atmosphere. In the Rio de Janeiro game, Universitario lost 3-1 and now must do much better if it wants to dream of qualification. The “U” leads the Peruvian league and beat second-placed Sporting Cristal 4-1 in its last game. Universitario is confident going into the next Copa Libertadores match, which is pretty much a final.

Botafogo

The Lone Star team drew 1-1 in Fortaleza and is now in fourth place in the Braslieirão. After a 2-1 home victory over LDU Quito, the point gained at the Arena Castelão gives Botafogo even more confidence ahead of the clash with Universitario. Incredibly, with Junior's win in Ecuador, the Brazilians can secure qualification with one round to go if they win in Lima, having lost their first two games. The Glorioso will travel to Barranquilla to face the leader in the group stage final match, so Artur Jorge's team will look to seal qualification in this game with Universitario.

Expert Betting Tips

It's a game where anything can happen. The Peruvians play at home with the support of their fans and will give everything to win. Botafogo plays its last two group fixtures on the road and knows that if it beats Universitario, it will qualify for the knockout stage. LDU Quito's home defeat to Junior was unexpected, and now the Brazilians will be looking to make the most of it. I'm betting on a Double Chance in favor of Botafogo with a maximum of three goals scored. The Rio de Janeiro side can win, but it won't be easy.