LDU Quito vs Palmeiras

A Copa Libertadores semifinal spot is at stake when LDU Quito host Palmeiras in the second leg of this quarter-final, a rematch of last year's dramatic semi. Palmeiras sit top of Brazil's Brasileirão and are already Paulista champions, while LDU Quito topped their Libertadores group. Palmeiras needed a fightback to edge past Cerro Porteño in the last round, then hammered Junior 4-1 to close the group, with Jhon Arias scoring twice. Raphael Veiga, who struck twice in last year's famous comeback, remains their spark. LDU Quito only survived Mirassol on penalties, with goalkeeper Gonzalo Valle - who missed that 2025 tie injured - the hero. Deyverson and Yerlin Quiñónez lead their attack under new coach Gustavo Álvarez. The clubs have met rarely, most notably in 2025 when LDU Quito won the first leg 3-0 before Palmeiras stormed back 4-0 in São Paulo. Expect a tense night at altitude. Our prediction: 1-1