Grêmio vs Bolívar – News and Probable Lineups

On Thursday, Gremio will face off against Bolivar at the Arena in Porto Alegre, with the kickoff slated for (UK time) in the second leg of their Copa Sudamericana 2026 last-16 playoff.

After suffering a 3-2 defeat in the first leg in La Paz, Gremio must claim a victory by two goals or more to automatically advance to the last 16, or by a single goal to take the match to penalties. Meanwhile, Bolivar can secure qualification with a draw in Brazil.

Match overview

Gremio is determined to rebound in their continental campaign following the setback in La Paz.

The team from Rio Grande do Sul is expected to apply early pressure at the Arena in an effort to overturn Bolivar’s lead, potentially starting in the first half.

Head coach Luis Castro has been modifying the team’s tactics to minimize the space available for the Bolivians, who are likely to attempt quick counter-attacks. The midfield is anticipated to press with more intensity when retrieving the ball.

Gremio fans are expected to fill the Arena, with tickets starting at about £3.70, to support their squad’s quest for a place in the Copa Sudamericana last 16.

Historically, the two teams have clashed five times, with Gremio maintaining a slight edge: three victories for the Brazilians against two for the Bolivians, and no matches ending in a draw. Gremio has netted eight goals in these encounters while conceding six.

On the other hand, Alejandro Restrepo’s Bolivar side, having secured a crucial 3-2 win at Estadio Hernando Siles, arrive in Porto Alegre with a plan focused on managing the aggregate score.

As previously mentioned, Bolivar will seek to take advantage of any gaps left by Gremio and move quickly down the flanks to catch the opposition unprepared.

The Bolivian side is well aware of the challenges posed by playing in Brazil and will look to control the game’s pace—set pieces will also be a strategic focus for the visiting coaching staff.

Thursday’s showdown will determine a place in the Copa Sudamericana last 16, with the winner set to face Sao Paulo in the following round.

This matchup is anticipated to be thrilling, contrasting Gremio’s urgent need for a win with Bolivar’s reactive game plan.

Team News

Gremio comes into the match nearly at full strength for this pivotal contest, with head coach Luis Castro set to feature forward Martin Braithwaite leading the attack alongside Cristian Pavon and Tete. Mathias Villasanti and Juan Nardoni are confirmed starters following their participation over the weekend.

The only uncertainties in the defensive lineup concern the right-back position, with Marcos Rocha and Diego Caito competing for the spot, as well as the arrangement of the back four with Argentine defender Walter Kannemann. Additionally, speedy options on the bench, such as Jose Enamorado and Miguel Monsalve, provide Rio Grande do Sul with more attacking choices.

For Bolivar, virtually the entire squad is ready for selection, with experienced forward Martin Cauteruccio and winger Dairon Asprilla, both of whom found the net in the first leg, serving as key threats for the visitors.

The midfield for Bolivar is expected to include Robson Matheus and Ervin Vaca providing cover for the defense, while veteran goalkeeper Carlos Lampe will be in goal and will need to withstand the attacking pressure from Gremio throughout the match.

Gremio probable starting XI:

Weverton; Marcos Rocha (Diego Caito), Gustavo Martins (Wagner Leonardo), Walter Kannemann, Marlon; Mathias Villasanti, Juan Nardoni, Miguel Monsalve; Cristian Pavon, Tete, Martin Braithwaite

Bolivar probable starting XI:

Carlos Lampe; Jesus Sagredo, Xavier Arreaga, Santiago Echeverria, Luis Paz; Ervin Vaca, Robson Matheus, Carlos Melgar; Dairon Asprilla, Martin Cauteruccio, Patricio Rodriguez

Gremio will aim for an early goal, and this urgency might create openings for Bolivar to exploit on the counter-attack.

If they are to qualify, it is unlikely to come easily, as Bolivar will do everything they can to slow the game down and disrupt Gremio’s rhythm, despite the Arena being expected to be filled with passionate home supporters.