Fortaleza vs. America Mineiro (Thursday, 11.00pm)
© Reuters
On the brink of their first semi-final appearance at the Copa Sudamericana, Fortaleza will host America Mineiro on Thursday at Arena Castelao.
Leao do Pici won the opening match between these two teams last week 3-1, their third successive victory away from home in this competition.
We say: Fortaleza 2-0 America Mineiro (Fortaleza advances 5-1 on aggregate)
America have proven to be a resilient bunch in this competition, but facing a side as well-balanced as Fortaleza, and given the struggles of Mineiro in front of goal, we have a hard believing they will be able to reverse the current scoreline in their favour.
> Click here to read our full preview for this match
Sao Paulo vs. LDU Quito (Thursday, 11.00pm)
© Reuters
LDU Quito are on the verge of a place in the semi-finals of the Copa Sudamericana as they head to Estadio de Morumbi on Thursday for the second leg of their tie with Sao Paulo.
Last week, Los Blancos hung on for a 2-1 win at home, giving them the upper hand in this tie, needing a win or draw to advance.
We say: Sao Paulo 1-0 LDU Quito (Sao Paulo advances on penalties)
They have done it before and there is no reason to suggest that Sao Paulo cannot turn the tables in their favour once again come Thursday.
While we expect a close match, we also believe that as the pressure begins to mount the experience of the Brazilians in these situations will give them a psychological edge.
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Barney Corkhill
