- Cienciano have won their only Copa Sudamericana home game so far, which was also to nil.
- Atletico Mineiro have lost their only Copa Sudamericana away game so far, conceding an average of 2.0 goals per game.
- Cienciano are unbeaten in their last 3 home games, winning 3.
Chess match in Cusco
A Copa Sudamericana group stage tie between Cienciano Cusco and Atletico Mineiro, two clubs that know each other well from last year’s group stage 1-1 draw, is a fascinating clash of styles and an important early opportunity for both clubs to assert themselves in the group. Our Cienciano Cusco vs Atletico Mineiro prediction will focus on which side can take advantage of the opposition’s weaknesses.
Cienciano are the early leaders of the group, having picked up 4 points from their opening 2 games while Atletico are just a point behind in second spot. Both teams have some strong attacking options to unlock the other’s defence and goals are likely in this Copa Sudamericana clash.
A disciplined and pragmatic 3-4-3 system is Horacio Melgarejo’s favourite at Cienciano, with a solid back three and two wing-backs who can push on and defend, and a number ten who drops deeper when out of possession. When the ball goes wide or high, Cienciano are a threat on the counter. For a more in-depth look, see this Cienciano Cusco vs Atletico Mineiro preview ahead of the crucial match.
Cienciano have the cutting edge
Eduardo Dominguez has brought a bit more balance and structure to Atletico since taking over, moving them towards a 4-2-3-1 system where a double pivot including Tomas Cuello works to protect the back four and build up the play in front of them.
Cuello has been in fine form in this competition so far, providing 2 assists in 1 group match, but the most reliable goal source is Argentine forward Mateo Cassierra, who has 2 goals in his last 5. Bernard, with 1 goal in 2 games, brings the creativity and quality to Atletico’s build-up play.
Carlos Garces is Cienciano’s man to mark as he has scored 2 in 2 games in this Copa Sudamericana campaign and 4 in the last 5 games overall. According to the latest Cienciano Cusco vs Atletico Mineiro prediction, Garces' form could be crucial to the outcome.
Cristian Souza is another good shout as he has 1 assist in 2 Copa Sudamericana games and is a key part of the transition from defence to attack.
Sides to net in a thriller
Both teams to score is a safe bet at 1.8 as the attacking quality on display should ensure that both clubs get on the scoresheet, while there could be over 2.5 goals in this game at 2.09. For more guidance, check out the Cienciano Cusco vs Atletico Mineiro betting tips for the best value options.
Backing the hosts to win looks a good option at 2.44 as they have won 3 consecutive home matches while Atletico have lost 3 away in a row. Cienciano are on a hot streak at home with 3 consecutive wins while Atletico have lost 3 in a row on the road, so home advantage should swing it for Cusco.
