Palmeiras, São Paulo Among First Five Teams to Reach Libertadores Round of 16

With the fifth group stage matchday wrapping up, the Copa Libertadores has begun to shape its knockout stage. As reported by Gazeta Esportiva, five clubs have officially qualified for the Round of 16—among them Brazilian powerhouses Palmeiras and São Paulo.

Palmeiras were the first to book their spot after a 2-0 away win over Cerro Porteño in Asunción. The victory kept their perfect record intact and secured them the top of Group G, with 12 points and an eight-point cushion over second place.

São Paulo followed with a 1-1 draw against Libertad at home, securing qualification from Group D. However, they missed the chance to seal first place, which will now be decided in the final round.

Racing Club of Argentina also advanced after a commanding 4-0 win over Colo-Colo. With 10 points atop Group E, they are now out of reach for Bucaramanga (6) and Colo-Colo (2), who each have just one match left.

In Group H, both Vélez Sarsfield and Peñarol clinched spots in the next round after beating San Antonio Bulo Bulo and Olimpia, respectively. Each now has 10 points and will face off in the final group match to determine the group winner. A draw would see Vélez finish first on tiebreakers.