The Copa Libertadores 2025 preliminary stage continues this Wednesday, February 14, as Alianza Lima and Nacional (Paraguay) clash in a decisive second-leg match. After a 1-1 draw in the first leg in Asunción, both teams will battle for a place in the next round, where Boca Juniors awaits in Phase 2 of the tournament.

Alianza Lima vs. Nacional: Match Details and Where to Watch

• Date: Wednesday, February 14, 2024
• Time: 7:30 PM ET / 4:30 PM PT
• Venue: Estadio Alejandro Villanueva (Matute), Lima, Peru
• Where to Watch: beIN SPORTS, beIN SPORTS en Español and beIN SPORTS CONNECT

How Alianza Lima and Nacional Arrive for the Second Leg

Alianza Lima: A Strong Start, but Without Paolo Guerrero

The Blanquiazules, coached by Néstor Gorosito, made an impressive start to their Peruvian league campaign with a 3-0 victory over Cusco FC. With a revamped squad featuring experienced players like Carlos Zambrano, Miguel Trauco, and Paolo Guerrero, Alianza Lima aims to be a contender in the Copa Libertadores.

However, they suffered a major setback in the first leg as Paolo Guerrero sustained an ankle injury and has been ruled out for the return match. The Peruvian striker suffered a second-degree sprain, forcing Gorosito to find alternative attacking solutions to break down Nacional's defense.

Nacional (Paraguay): Searching for Their First Win of the Year

On the other hand, Nacional, led by Juan Pablo Pumpido, has had a rough start to the season. Despite securing a 1-1 draw in the first leg, with a goal from Gustavo Caballero, the Paraguayan side remains winless in their domestic league, with three losses and one draw in their opening matches.

Despite their struggles, La Academia relies on a solid defensive setup and hopes to spring a surprise against Alianza Lima on the road to advance in the Libertadores.

What’s at Stake? Boca Juniors Awaits in the Next Round

The winner of this tie will advance to Phase 2 of the Copa Libertadores, where they will face Boca Juniors, one of the tournament’s most prestigious clubs. The Argentine giants, managed by Fernando Gago, have won the competition six times and enter the next round as favorites.

The victorious team will play a two-legged series against Boca, aiming to move closer to a spot in the Copa Libertadores 2025 group stage.

This Wednesday at Matute, Alianza Lima and Nacional will fight for their continental aspirations. Will Alianza Lima capitalize on home advantage, or will Nacional pull off an upset in Lima?