Raphael Durand
Dailysports's expert
One of the key clashes of Matchday 5 in the Copa Libertadores group stage will take place this Friday at the Gran Parque Central in Montevideo, where local side Nacional hosts Internacional. I’m backing a bet on goals in this encounter, which comes with a promising odds offer.
Match preview
Nacional are riding high after a sensational 3-1 away win over Bahia in Brazil. That result not only boosted the squad’s morale but also reignited their hopes of advancing from the group, trimming the gap to the leader to just three points. Pablo Peirano’s men are unbeaten in six matches, including three consecutive home victories, making them formidable opponents ahead of this showdown with Internacional.
Home fixtures have truly become a fortress for Nacional, and the team aims to extend their successful streak at the Gran Parque Central. Their impressive attacking form and defensive solidity inspire optimism for the upcoming battle. With their rivals facing squad issues, the “Bolsos” have a great shot at a crucial win to solidify their position in the group.
Internacional, meanwhile, are facing major challenges ahead of their trip to Nacional, as several key players will be missing. The absences of Rochet, Carbonero, Borré, Valencia, and Mercado weaken the team, especially given their three consecutive defeats, during which their defense has looked vulnerable, conceding 11 goals. After setbacks against Botafogo, Atlético Nacional, and Corinthians, the Porto Alegre side must dig deep to find the balance they need.
Despite these struggles, Inter remain a side involved in high-scoring matches, averaging 3.8 goals per game in the group. Their aggressive approach often leads to entertaining contests, and facing a motivated Nacional away could prove both an opportunity and a risk. Their mission: tighten up at the back and make the most of any chances going forward to keep their qualification hopes alive.
Probable lineups
- Nacional: Luis Mejía, Leonardo Morales, Pedro Calione, Sebastián Coates, Joaquín Millán, Gabriel Baez, Luis Bojo, Cristian Oliva, Juan Recoba, Lautaro Villalba Jaume, Nicolás López
- Internacional: Lucca, Wesley, Douglas Rosa, Bruno Tabata, Thiago Maia, Ronaldo, Ramon, Victor Gabriel, Augusto Rohel, Bruno Aguirre, Antony
Match facts and head-to-head
- The first leg ended in a 3-3 draw in Brazil
- The "Both teams to score" bet has landed in the last three matches between these sides
- The "Over 2.5 goals" bet has come through in two out of five encounters
Prediction
Bookmakers are cautious heading into this clash and have set fairly even odds. We expect goals in this contest and recommend the "Over 2.0 goals" bet at odds of 1.70.
