Raphael Durand
Dailysports's expert
Next Friday, the first match of the South American Recopa will take place at the "Rodrigo Paz Delgado" arena, where the local LDU Quito will host Fluminense. Here's the prediction for this match from our site's experts.
LDU Quito
In the previous edition of the Copa Sudamericana, Luis Zubeldía's team was not considered favorites, but after defeating Brazilian side São Paulo in the quarter-finals, the situation changed. In the semi-finals against Argentine club Defensa y Justicia, the Ecuadorians were the favorites and lived up to expectations, defeating their opponents 3-0 on aggregate.
In the final match against Brazilian side Fortaleza, bookmakers favored the opponent, but LDU Quito held their ground on the football pitch. After a draw in regular and extra time, they were luckier in the penalty shootout. LDU Quito also succeeded in the Ecuadorian Liga Pro, where they defeated Independiente del Valle in the playoff final, also in a penalty shootout.
Fluminense
Unlike Argentine club Boca Juniors, Fluminense was not the favorite in the Copa Libertadores. However, these two clubs ended up competing for the trophy in November 2023. At the legendary Maracanã stadium, regular time ended in a draw, but a precise strike from forward John Kennedy in the 99th minute secured victory for the "Warriors' Team."
Unlike the Ecuadorian championship, where the winner is already determined and LDU Quito had to prepare for the Recopa amid friendly matches, Fluminense competes in the state championship of Rio de Janeiro. In nine matches, Fluminense has achieved six victories and three draws. Currently, Fernando Diniz's team occupies the second position in the table, trailing Flamengo on additional indicators. In the Brazilian Serie A, Fluminense finished seventh in the standings.
Interesting Match Facts and Head-to-Head History
- The last time these teams met was in the fall of 2017, during the Copa Sudamericana round of 16. Fluminense advanced on away goals.
- In 2008, the teams met in the Copa Libertadores final, with Fluminense emerging victorious in the penalty shootout.
- In the last five meetings between LDU Quito and Fluminense, LDU Quito lost three times and won twice.
LDU Quito vs Fluminense Prediction
Bookmakers slightly favor LDU Quito, estimating the likelihood of their victory at odds of 2.13. LDU Quito lacks match practice and traditionally struggles against Fluminense. Our bet is "Fluminense not to lose" with odds of 1.74.
