Atletico Paranaense vs Bolívar Prediction (09.08.2023)

In the early hours of Monday, Atletico PR and Bolivar clash at the Alinja Arena in the Copa Libertadores last-16 second leg. The first leg ended in a 3-1 win for the Bolivian visitors.

The Brazilian team heads into this clash on the back of a three-game winless run in all competitions. Atletico has also won just two of their previous eight competitive matches. Their recent outings have been relatively low-scoring, with under 2.5 goals scored in five of their last seven matches.

Atletico have experienced inconsistent recent form in the Copa Libertadores, with their record of three wins in their last nine matches in the competitions illustrating that fact. The first-leg defeat ended a short two-game losing streak for the home team.

Atletico PR has been formidable on home soil of late in the Copa Libertadores, as they are unbeaten in their last 13 home games, recording ten wins and three draws. They have also recorded four straight home victories in the competition.

The Bolivian team are in good form going into this clash, as they are unbeaten in their last four matches, having recorded three wins and a draw, having scored at least three goals in each of the victories.

Bolivar’s recent good form has included good form in the Copa Libertadores, as they have won four of their last five matches. Their recent games in the competition have been relatively high-scoring, with over 2.5 goals scored in five of their previous seven matches.

One aspect of the visitor's game that needs to improve is Bolivar’s away record, as they have lost three of their last four games on their travels in the Copa Libertadores. They have also conceded at least two goals in five of their last six away matches in the competition.

Atletico’s recent form has been inconsistent. However, the Brazilian team are strong on home soil, while Bolivar has travelled poorly in the Copa Libertadores. With those facts taken into account, I am backing the home win.