Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Copa Sudamericana match.
In the early hours of Wednesday, Vasco da Gama and Melgar will battle it out to determine who claims the second play-off spot from Group G in the Copa Sudamericana. Despite the absence of an injured key player Dimitri Payet, Vasco da Gama appear to hold a technical advantage, with a squad that features both talent and experience.
Vasco da Gama
May has seen a turnaround in form for Vasco da Gama. The team secured a dominant 3:0 victory over Fortaleza in Série A and progressed in the domestic cup after overcoming Operário Ferroviário on penalties following a 2:1 result. In the Copa Sudamericana, Vasco da Gama claimed a 1:0 win at home against Academia Puerto Cabello and followed that with a goalless draw versus Club Atlético Lanús, who have already guaranteed a place in the play-offs. The squad now face a must-win scenario in their final group match.
Melgar
The recent domestic run of Melgar has cast doubts over their ability to remain competitive in the title race, with Universitario de Deportes and Alianza Lima currently looking stronger. Melgar have picked up only one win from their last five league outings. In the Copa Sudamericana, they have conceded seven goals in five matches, and their away form has been particularly poor — they have allowed 10 goals in six away fixtures since early April. They are likely to offer up opportunities again in Brazil.
Vasco da Gama vs Melgar Prediction
In the opening round of the Copa Sudamericana, Vasco da Gama squandered a 3:1 lead against Melgar, conceding twice in the second half to draw 3:3. Back on home soil, Vasco da Gama are expected to be more clinical in attack and make the most of their chances in front of goal.
