Recap
Always Ready comes into this Libertadores clash after a disappointing 0-1 defeat against The Strongest in the Bolivian top derby, where they failed to impress offensively. Their previous Libertadores performance was much stronger, demolishing Lan̼s 4-0 Рbut that victory came under their biggest advantage: the extreme altitude of 4,150 meters in El Alto.
This time, however, the situation is completely different.
Due to the unrest and protests currently affecting Bolivia, CONMEBOL decided that Bolivian clubs must play this week’s matches abroad. As a result, Always Ready will host this game on neutral ground at Estadio La Huerta in Asunción, Paraguay – losing the altitude factor that usually makes them extremely dangerous at home.
The Bolivians will also be without Uzeda because of injury.
Meanwhile, Mirassol arrives in strong form despite the recent defeat away to Atlético Mineiro in the Brazilian Serie A, which ended an impressive five-match unbeaten run (4-1-0). In the Copa Libertadores, the Brazilians currently lead the group with a strong 3-0-1 record and travel almost at full strength, with only Negueba, Formiga, and Andre unavailable.
Without the altitude advantage and possibly affected psychologically by the current situation surrounding the club and country, Always Ready may struggle to impose themselves. They are traditionally far less aggressive away from El Alto, while Mirassol looks organized, confident, and well-positioned to take advantage on neutral ground in Paraguay.