Olimpia vs Vasco – News and Probable Lineups

Olimpia, the leaders of Group G, are set to face Vasco da Gama in a critical Copa Sudamericana matchup on Wednesday evening at the Estadio Defensores del Chaco in Asuncion.

Both teams are currently equal on seven points as they approach the penultimate group-stage clash, yet Vasco is in first place due to a better goal difference following a resounding 3-0 win in their previous encounter at Sao Januario roughly three weeks ago. Olimpia understands that a win would not only serve as revenge but also likely put them in control of the group entering the final round.

Match overview

Olimpia enters this match in strong form domestically despite a heavy loss in Rio earlier in the group stage.

Pablo “Vitamina” Sanchez has led the Paraguaian giants to the Torneo Apertura title this season, securing the club’s 48th league championship with games remaining.

Since that loss against Vasco, the Paraguaian club has shown great resilience, winning matches in thrilling fashion — their most recent victory was a 3-2 win against Recoleta, courtesy of a last-minute goal from Hugo Sandoval, following a 2-1 away win against Barracas Central in continental competition.

These late-game triumphs have renewed confidence within the club, and the atmosphere at Defensores del Chaco is poised to be electric for what is seen as a chance for redemption after the disappointing defeat in Brazil.

The earlier matchup highlighted several defensive vulnerabilities in Olimpia’s setup, as Vasco showcased one of their finest performances of the season — goals from Puma Rodriguez, Nuno Moreira, and Adson secured a commanding 3-0 victory in Rio, allowing the Brazilian team to take sole possession of the top spot in Group G.

Conversely, Vasco comes to Paraguay with significantly less stability in their domestic league compared to their hosts. Under Renato Portaluppi’s management, the team has struggled on the road, yet to secure a league victory away this season, with four draws and four losses as visitors.

Their form in international competition has been markedly better, having netted five goals in their last two Sudamericana outings, including a hard-fought 2-1 victory against Audax Italiano that showcased their improved resilience and attacking fluidity.

Recent attacking displays from Adson and Andres Gomez have been crucial, and the team relies heavily on quick transitions and direct attacking play under Portaluppi’s guidance.

Vasco’s confidence suffered a setback domestically following a significant 4-1 loss to Internacional, ending a five-match unbeaten streak. A victory in Asuncion could quickly restore momentum and potentially secure qualification ahead of the final group match.

Olimpia’s home advantage could play a pivotal role, especially considering Vasco’s inconsistent performances away from home in Brazil. However, the visitors have already shown in their first encounter that they have enough attacking prowess to capitalize on defensive errors.

Team News

Olimpia is still missing midfielders Richard Sanchez and Richard Ortiz, both sidelined due to injuries.

Their absence limits Sanchez’s options in terms of experience and creativity in crucial central areas for one of the club’s most significant matches of the season.

Veteran goalkeeper Olveira is anticipated to keep his position, while Lezcano and Ferreira remain critical attacking threats for the Paraguaian side.

Vasco will again be without their suspended head coach Renato Gaucho, leaving assistant Alexandre Mendes to take charge on the sideline.

Cuiabano is still unavailable due to injury, and Paulo Henrique is doubtful after recently suffering an ankle sprain.

The Brazilian squad is expected to stick with the defensive setup that proved effective in the previous match, with Piton and Puma Rodriguez providing width from the full-back positions.

Olimpia probable starting XI:

Oliveira; Caceres, Vargas, Gamarra, Rodriguez; Franco, Alfaro, Delmas; Lezcano; Alcaraz, Ferreira

Vasco da Gama probable starting XI:

Garden; Rodriguez, Cuesta, Renan, Piton; Moura, Mendes, Tche Tche; Rojas, Gomez, Spinelli

Olimpia is expected to be significantly more competitive on their home ground than they were in Rio, especially with the emotional support of a full crowd at Defensores del Chaco and the added motivation of wanting to avenge their earlier defeat.

Nonetheless, Vasco has already proven they can exploit the Paraguaian defense during transitions, and their attacking talent gives them a strong chance of achieving another favorable outcome. With both teams aware of the significance of not losing in the group standings, a tense draw appears to be the most likely result.