A draw would be sufficient for both clubs to progress to the knockout stage. In fact, Racing have already confirmed their place in the next round, and a single point would be enough to secure top spot in the group. Fortaleza would also be content with a draw. The likelihood of a stalemate aligns with prevailing expectations.
Racing have delivered impressive performances in the Copa Libertadores, but their domestic form in the Argentine Primera División has been disappointing. They were eliminated in the opening round of the Apertura playoffs by Platense (0:1). Either side of that defeat, the squad managed two comprehensive 4:0 wins in the Copa Libertadores against the group’s weakest sides — Atlético Bucaramanga and Colo-Colo.
Fortaleza currently top the group, aided in part by the technical loss awarded to Colo-Colo, although Colo-Colo played no direct role in that decision — the match simply took place in Santiago. The key question is whether they can secure a draw on the road. Their form in the Brazilian Serie A has been poor: after ten rounds, they are hovering just above the relegation zone with only two wins. Prior to their 0:3 away defeat to Vasco da Gama on 18 May, they had drawn four matches in a row. Their last away defeat before that came on 17 April — a 1:2 loss to Vitória.
We believe Fortaleza have minimal chances of winning. Their current standing appears to overestimate their form. The visitors have also struggled in attack lately, failing to score in three of their last four matches in all competitions. Our recommended bet is on the home side in the double chance market, combined with Total Under 3.5 goals.
