Nacional vs São Paulo Prediction: São Paulo is looking for a good result in Uruguay

Nacional de Montevideo and São Paulo will meet in the first leg of the Copa Libertadores Round of 16. Both clubs have won the competition three times, so this is a clash between two South American heavyweights. The last time Nacional won the trophy was in 1988, while São Paulo's most recent victory was in 2005. Brazilian clubs have dominated the Copa Libertadores recently, winning the previous five editions.

Nacional

The Bolso won the Torneo Intermedio by beating rival Peñarol in the final on penalties. The match occurred on August 4, so the team had time to rest and prepare for the knockout round against São Paulo. In the Copa Libertadores group stage, the Montevideo club finished second in Group H with 10 points, five behind River Plate, one of the favorites to win the trophy. Nacional has not lost a home match, beating Libertad and Deportivo Táchira and drawing with River. At home, Martín Lasarte's team will be looking to gain an advantage in the first leg against a strong opponent.

São Paulo

The Tricolor beat Atlético Goianiense 1-0 in the previous round of the Brasileirão. André Silva scored early on, after 15 minutes, but the team didn't perform well. Coach Luis Zubeldía decided to rest some players given the match with Nacional, so a less accomplished performance was natural. The Paulistas are fifth in the league and motivated for the Copa Libertadores knockout round. In the group stage, São Paulo won Group B with 13 points, the same as Talleres.

Expert Betting Tips

São Paulo is the favorite to advance to the quarter-finals, but it's not advisable to underestimate a Uruguayan team. Nacional didn't lose at home in the group stage and always has strong support from its fans, so it won't be easy for São Paulo to win in Montevideo. I'm inclined to bet on a draw, which might satisfy the Brazilians.