Santos and Barcelona SC clash today in a match for the opening game of the 2021 Copa Libertadores group C. The Brazilian team booked a ticket to this round last week after beating San Lorenzo, while the Ecuadorian side clinched a spot by their performance in the local league. Here, check out the match preview, information, storylines, predictions, odds, and how to watch it in the US.
The three-time Libertadores champions will be once again taking part in the most prestigious tournament in South America. The Peixe were runners-up in the last edition, losing in the final after a dramatic stoppage-time goal of Palmeiras.
On the other hand, Barcelona de Guayaquil head to this competition with plenty of hope after being crowned in the domestic championship last year. Fabían Bustos' side has a tough challenge upfront, though. Santos is always a serious contender in the Libertadores.
Santos vs Barcelona SC: Match Information
Date: Tuesday, April 20, 2021
Time: 6:15 PM (ET)
Location: Estadio Urbano Caldeira, Santos
Santos vs Barcelona SC: Time by State in the US
ET: 6:15 PM
CT: 5:15 PM
MT: 4:15 PM
PT: 3:15 PM
Santos vs Barcelona SC: Storylines
Despite they were close to claim another Libertadores title just a few months ago, Santos had to almost start from scratch to earn a place in the current tournament. The Peixe's 8th place in the Brasileirao forced them to fight for a group stage spot from the qualifying rounds.
Ariel Holan's boys did well, though, knocking Deportivo Lara out first, and beating Argentine giants San Lorenzo later. They've progressed to this group only a week ago, despite suffering at home against the Cuervos. A brilliant first leg match was enough for them to advance in Brazil.
Meanwhile, Barcelona Sporting Club have been looking forward to this moment for a while. The Coloso secured the Ecuador Serie A title on December 2020, after defeating Liga de Quito on penalties in the defining game. Bustos' team is currently second in the local tournament, with 18 points in nine games.
How to watch or live stream Santos vs Barcelona SC in the US
The Copa Libertadores 2021 group stage game to be played between Santos and Barcelona SC will be broadcast in the US by Fanatiz, beIN SPORTS CONNECT and beIN SPORTS.
Santos vs Barcelona SC: Predictions and Odds
Santos have a powerful team, with many players that reached the final a couple of months ago, although the Ecuadorian champions have an opportunity to prove their strength. Oddsmakers put the home side as the favorite to win today's game. According to Caliente, the Brazilian team has odds of -125, while Barcelona SC have odds of +350. A tie would result in a +255 payout.
