After a 1-1 draw in Paraguay, it’s now Athletico PR’s turn to have the home advantage. Both sides missed penalties in the first leg, although the Brazilian side will be more frustrated after dominating the second half.

Cerro Porteno were always going to be in the driving seat in the first half, and they were rewarded for that with a goal through Miguel Benitez. However, the Paraguayan club didn’t have a single shot on target in the second 45 minutes, where Athletico PR stepped it up.

Equalising in the 69th minute through midfielder Christian, it was ex-Man City captain Fernandinho who missed from the spot 10 minutes from time.

The Brazilian outfit had 16 shots and finished with 60% possession, taking eight attempts on goal in the second half as they chased the equaliser, and eventual winner.

That winning goal didn’t come, but back on home soil, Varini’s men will be confident of securing their qualification to the next round.

Those looking outside in might be put off due to the fact the hosts have only won one of their last five at home. Defeats against Bahia and Sao Paulo will have frustrated fans, but both have vastly improved their squads, and are competing for Copa Libertadores spots next season.

The reason why Varini’s side are even having to qualify is because of a “freak” result in the group stage vs Paraguayan club Ameliano. They lost 1-0, but it doesn’t tell the whole story. The visitors had one shot on target and finished with an xG of 0.23, whereas the Brazilians had 82% possession, an xG of 2,76 and 24 attempts on goal. Any other night, and this result is reversed, seeing Athletico already through to the next stage.

Athletico PR are due some luck, and against opponents weaker than those they have faced recently in Brazil’s Serie A, they can secure a much needed victory.