Barcelona SC Faces Must-Win Match Against Universitario in Copa Libertadores

LIMA, Peru – Barcelona SC travels to Lima tonight to face Universitario de Deportes in a crucial match for the Copa Libertadores.

This match, part of Group B, kicks off at 21:00 and is vital for Barcelona SC as they seek to advance to the knockout stage. The team, led by head coach Segundo Alejandro Castillo, currently sits third in the group with four points after suffering two consecutive defeats at home against Universitario (1-0) and River Plate (3-2).

“We need a win to keep our hopes alive for progressing in the tournament,” Castillo stated. “The players understand the importance of this game and are ready to fight for every point.”

Barcelona has experienced a rough patch and will look to revert their fortunes with a strong lineup. Castillo plans to stick to his usual formation with José Contreras in goal, as well as Aníbal Chalá, Gustavo Vallecilla, Xavier Arreaga, and Bryan Carabalí in defense. Leonai Souza, Jesús Trindade, Janner Corozo, Joaquín Valiente, and Braian Oyola will make up the midfield, with Octavio Rivero leading the attack.

The pressure is on Barcelona SC as they aim to close the gap in the standings. They are only one point behind second-place Independiente del Valle, who currently has five points.

To remain in contention for the next round, Barcelona must secure a victory in Lima. A win will keep them alive heading into the final matchday, depending on the results between River Plate and Independiente del Valle, who play in Buenos Aires tomorrow.

In their previous encounter in Buenos Aires, the two teams played to a scoreless draw, adding extra motivation for Barcelona to outshine Universitario at home.