Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Copa Libertadores match.
Palmeiras head to Bolivia as group leaders, but they are unlikely to find the trip straightforward. The match will take place at an altitude of 3,700 metres above sea level — a factor that should not be underestimated.
Bolívar
The thin air at high altitude remains Bolívar’s key advantage. This played a decisive role in their 3:0 win over Sporting Cristal in the second round of the group stage. While altitude is less of a factor in domestic fixtures where all teams play under similar conditions, Bolívar are a strong squad in their own right, and currently hold the national title.
Palmeiras
Palmeiras are also a quality outfit, having finished second in the Brazilian league. However, in the previous Copa Libertadores campaign, they were eliminated in the Round of 16 by eventual champions Botafogo de Futebol e Regatas (1:2, 2:2). Bolívar also made it to the knockout round, finishing top of their group and putting up a strong fight against Clube de Regatas do Flamengo in the opening round. Despite a 0:2 loss at Maracanã, they managed a 1:0 win in the second leg on home soil.
Bolívar vs Palmeiras Prediction
These sides last faced each other in the group stage two years ago. Bolívar won (3:1) at home but suffered a 0:4 defeat away. A similar pattern could emerge again — with the Bolivian team expected to make the most of home advantage.
