Atlético Mineiro vs Peñarol Prediction: Atlético will host a challenging opponent

Atlético is on a high after a 3-0 win over its eternal rival, Cruzeiro. The appointment of Argentinian coach Gabriel Milito, who arrived in Belo Horizonte seven games ago and has yet to lose, seems to be working. On the other side will be Peñarol, a five-time Copa Libertadores winner and always a fearsome opponent.

The Rooster is competitive and plays good football. Scarpa has made the team even more dangerous in attack, combining with Hulk's strength and Paulinho's directness. Scarpa's left foot and creativity are wreaking havoc on the right side of Atlético's attack. With two wins from two games in the Copa Libertadores, the Miners can virtually guarantee qualification for the next stage of the competition if they beat Peñarol. It would be in Atlético Mineiro's interest for this to happen as soon as possible to concentrate on the Brasileirão.

In the Uruguayan league, Penãrol is at the top with eight victories and a draw with Nacional in nine matches. Meanwhile, things are more difficult in the Copa Libertadores. The Gold & Black goes to Brazil to pick up at least a point. With a 5-0 win at home to Caracas and a 1-0 away defeat to Rosario Central, Penãrol could complicate the qualification with a defeat against Atlético Mineiro. Uruguayan football is famous for its fighting spirit, and Penãrol is an example of this, being the third club in South America with the most Copa Libertadores titles. With such a prestigious record, the Montevideo club will fight, for sure, to the last drop of sweat.

Atlético is the favorite in this match. The team has been playing dynamic football, passing the ball around well, and has creative players up front. Against the Uruguayans, it will require more patience to find space to create chances, and that's why my bet is for a goal total under 2.5. It's a bet that allows Atlético to win by one or two goals to nil but also a 0-0 or 1-1 draw, which isn't impossible either.