As the Copa Libertadores group stage reaches its climax, Rosario Central and Caracas FC are set for a crucial encounter at the Estadio Gigante de Arroyito.
This match is pivotal for both teams, with their hopes of advancing to the knockout stages hanging in the balance. Here’s an in-depth look at the prediction, team form, news, and potential outcomes of this highly anticipated clash.
Current Form and Recent Performance
Rosario
Rosario Central, under the guidance of Miguel Angel Russo, has experienced a rocky campaign so far.
They currently sit third in Group G with four points, following a 1-0 home defeat to Atletico Mineiro. This loss marked their third successive match conceding the opening goal in the group stage.
Despite a strong start with a win against Penarol, Rosario has struggled, remaining winless in their last six matches across all competitions.
Their attacking woes are evident, having scored just one first-half goal in the group stage.
Caracas FC
On the other hand, Caracas FC, the 12-time champions of Venezuela, have had an even tougher time.
They are at the bottom of Group G with only one point, having lost their last match 1-0 to Penarol. Domestically, they are also floundering, positioned 12th in the Apertura.
Caracas has not secured a competitive victory since February, highlighting their struggles both defensively and offensively. They have allowed 11 goals in four Libertadores matches, more than any other team in the tournament.
Team News and Lineups
Rosario will be missing Francis Mac Allister and Agustin Bravo due to ACL injuries, while Abel Hernandez is out with a thigh injury.
Newcomers Jonatan Gomez and Agustin Modica could start, having replaced Lautaro Giaccone and Tobias Cervera in the previous match.
Caracas, managed by Henry Melendez, may feature Frankarlos Benitez, Luis Casiani, and Manuel Sulbaran in the starting lineup.
Edwuin Pernia and Danny Perez, the only goal scorers for Caracas in this competition, are expected to lead the attack.
Prediction
Given the current form and historical performances, Rosario Central is favoured to win this match.
They have never lost to a Venezuelan opponent in the Copa Libertadores and have a stronger defensive record compared to Caracas.
Our predicted scoreline is Rosario Central 2-0 Caracas, with Rosario likely to capitalise on Caracas’ defensive vulnerabilities and their own home advantage.
FAQ
What is the significance of the Rosario vs Caracas match? The match between Rosario Central and Caracas FC is crucial for both teams as it determines their chances of advancing to the knockout stages of the Copa Libertadores. A win is essential for both sides to keep their hopes alive.
How has Rosario Central performed in the Copa Libertadores so far? Rosario Central has had a mixed campaign, starting strong with a win against Penarol but struggling in subsequent matches. They currently sit third in Group G with four points, having lost their last match 1-0 to Atletico Mineiro.
What is Caracas FC's current standing in the group? Caracas FC is at the bottom of Group G with only one point. They have had a tough run, losing their last match 1-0 to Penarol and struggling both domestically and in the Copa Libertadores.
Who are the key players missing for Rosario Central? Rosario Central will be without Francis Mac Allister and Agustin Bravo due to ACL injuries. Abel Hernandez is also out with a thigh injury.
Which players are expected to step up for Rosario Central? Jonatan Gomez and Agustin Modica, who were newcomers in the previous match, are expected to start. Rosario’s lineup will likely feature Broun, Martinez, Mallo, Quintana, Sandez, O'Connor, Ortiz, Giaccone, Malcorra, Coronel, and Campaz.
What changes can be expected in Caracas FC’s lineup? Caracas FC might include Frankarlos Benitez, Luis Casiani, and Manuel Sulbaran in the starting lineup. Key players like Edwuin Pernia and Danny Perez, who have scored in the competition, will lead their attack.
What is the historical performance of Rosario Central against Venezuelan teams? Rosario Central has never lost to a Venezuelan opponent in the Copa Libertadores. They have won three out of five contests, including their two home games against Venezuelan teams.
What are the main weaknesses of Caracas FC? Caracas FC has struggled defensively, conceding 11 goals in four Libertadores matches, more than any other team in the tournament. They have also struggled offensively, scoring only two goals in the competition.
When and where is the match taking place? The match is scheduled for Thursday, May 16, 2024, at the Estadio Gigante de Arroyito in Rosario.
Caracas 
Rosario 
