Thursday's Copa Sudamericana predictions including Cuiaba vs. Palestino

Cuiaba vs. Palestino (Thursday, 11.00pm)

The first of three matches on Thursday at the Copa Sudamericana will see Palestino pay a first-ever visit to Arena Pantanal to battle Cuiaba in the second leg of that round of 32 tie.

In last week's opening leg, the Brazilians scored just beyond the hour mark to claim a 1-1 draw as they seek their first-ever trip to the last 16 of this tournament.

We say: Cuiaba 1-1 Palestino (Cuiaba advance on penalties)

Given what is at stake in this encounter, we expect the pressure may get the better of these two sides, who are unfamiliar with knockout football.

While it could be a nervy affair on Wednesday, we expect the energy and belief that Cuiaba have built up in this tournament will eventually pay off.

Athletico PR vs. Cerro Porteno (Friday, 1.30am)

Either Athletico Paranaense or Cerro Porteno will claim the final place in the last 16 of the Copa Sudamericana when they square off on Thursday at Ligga Arena.

This tie is all square after El Paranaense came from behind with a second-half equaliser, and these sides played to a 1-1 draw in the opening match between them last week.

We say: Athletico Paranaense 1-1 Cerro Porteno (Cerro Porteno advance on penalties)

These sides are evenly matched in virtually every category, but the Paraguayans have looked quite comfortable away from home, while El Paranaense appear to be overwhelmed when playing in front of their supporters.

Always Ready vs. LDU Quito (Friday, 1.30am)

It will take a lopsided victory for Always Ready to advance beyond the round of 32 at the Copa Sudamericana as they host LDU Quito on Thursday from Estadio Municipal de Al Alto.

A 3-0 victory in the opening leg of this tie last week has Quito in the driver's seat heading into this encounter in what will be their first-ever visit to nearby El Alto.

We say: Always Ready 0-1 LDU Quito

Always Ready put together some splendid performances in the group stage, but they seem to have run out of gas, whereas Quito look refreshed and determined to retain their Sudamericana crown.