Olimpia vs Audax Italiano Preview
This Copa Sudamericana group stage clash is a fascinating encounter between two sides who have already met earlier in the competition. Olimpia claimed a convincing 2-0 away win at Audax Italiano in that first meeting, and the Paraguayan side will be eager to replicate that performance on home soil. Audax head into this one with a decent enough record but will need to show significant improvement to avoid another defeat.
Both teams have shown they can score goals throughout this campaign, which makes the case for an entertaining contest with plenty of action at both ends.
Olimpia Flying High at Home and Looking to Build on Recent Momentum
Olimpia have been in excellent form overall and come into this fixture with real confidence. A commanding 3-1 home win over Vasco in their last home outing was a superb result, and a 1-2 away win at Barracas Central before that showed their ability to deliver when travelling as well.
At home specifically, Olimpia have been strong and difficult to break down. That impressive 3-1 home victory over Vasco highlighted just how dangerous they can be in front of their own supporters, while a 0-0 home draw with Barracas Central earlier in the group shows they can also be defensively resolute when needed.
Audax Italiano Dangerous on Their Travels but Unreliable at Key Moments
Audax have been a competitive side throughout this campaign and carry genuine threat going forward. A 2-0 home win over Barracas Central in their last home outing was impressive, though a 1-2 home loss to Vasco before that highlighted their inconsistency on their own ground.
Their away record has been more encouraging. A 1-2 away win at Vasco was their standout result on the road, and a 1-1 away draw at Barracas Central showed they can grind out results when needed. However, that earlier 0-2 away defeat at Olimpia is a result that will have dented their confidence heading into this rematch.
Olimpia vs Audax Italiano Prediction
Olimpia look the stronger side here and backing them to win while both teams score feels like the most well-rounded selection given the attacking quality on both sides. Olimpia to win and both teams to score is the standout pick at 3.60 odds.
Both sides have featured in high-scoring games throughout this competition, and with Audax capable of finding the net even in defeat, over 2.5 goals looks like a smart play here at 1.85 odds.
A 2-1 home win for Olimpia feels like the most realistic correct score, with the hosts doing enough to claim victory while Audax contribute a goal of their own in what should be an entertaining contest at 8.50 odds.