Match Preview
Club Bolívar will host Grêmio at Estadio Hernando Siles on Thursday, July 23, in a Copa Sudamericana clash that highlights contrasting recent forms. Bolívar's struggles at home are evident, with just one win in their last five matches (1W, 2D, 2L) and a total of nine goals conceded during that stretch. Their last outing ended in a 1-3 defeat to Independiente Rivadavia on May 28, underscoring the defensive vulnerabilities they will need to address against a Grêmio side that has shown resilience in away fixtures.
Grêmio, currently positioned second in their group, has been more competitive away from home, with a record of two wins, two draws, and one loss in their last five away games (2W, 2D, 1L). They have scored eight goals while conceding just three, showcasing a solid defensive effort with three clean sheets. Notably, their recent form includes a 3-0 victory over Deportivo Riestra in the Copa Sudamericana on May 5, although they enter this match following a disappointing 1-2 loss to Mirassol on July 17.
In terms of personnel, Bolívar reports no major absences, which could provide a boost as they aim to improve their home record. Meanwhile, Grêmio will be without key players Roger and Marlon, who are sidelined due to injury. This could impact their attacking options, particularly as they look to exploit Bolívar's defensive frailties.
Key players for Grêmio include Martin Braithwaite, who has scored one goal in three away Copa Sudamericana games this season, and Gabriel Mec, contributing one assist in the same number of matches. As Bolívar seeks to reverse their recent home misfortunes, they will need to find a way to neutralize Grêmio's attacking threats while improving their own goal-scoring efficiency, having netted just eight goals in their last five home games.
