In Round 5 of the Copa Libertadores group stage, Coquimbo Unido host Deportes Tolima. Both teams are level on 7 points, and after this match the group leader should become much clearer. However, based on the movement in the total-goals line, this game is unlikely to turn into a goal fest.
Coquimbo Unido have played with a relatively cautious tempo in the group stage, scoring just 5 goals in 4 matches, an average of 1.25 per game, with two of those matches finishing with two goals or fewer in total. Although their attack has been a little more active at home, breaking down a Deportes Tolima side that has conceded only 3 goals in the group stage will not be easy.
Deportes Tolima’s defensive numbers are even more solid, having conceded just 3 goals in 4 group matches and kept two clean sheets. Away from home, the team’s tactical focus is usually placed first and foremost on defense, with a relatively slow game tempo.
In the over/under market, bookmakers have generally set the line at 2/2.5 goals. By the end, the odds on Over have commonly risen from the 0.87-0.95 range to a higher 1.00-1.08 level, while Under odds have correspondingly fallen into the low 0.72-0.85 range. Some firms, such as 36 and 10, have even dropped the line from 2.5 goals to 2/2.5 goals, with Over priced above 1.00. The line being lowered, combined with steadily rising Over odds, suggests the bookmakers have limited expectations for the Over to land.
Taking into account both teams’ defensive performances in the group stage, their cautious approach in a crucial match, and the movement in the betting line, this game is likely to finish with no more than 2 total goals.