Universidad Catolica backed to edge Concepcion with firepower

Concepcion have midfielder Jonathan Rocha out injured.

Universidad Catolica are without striker Diego Valencia and defender Branco Ampuero among their absentees.

Concepcion have no suspended players and no major selection doubts, with Jonathan Rocha unavailable because of an ankle injury.

Universidad Catolica also have no suspensions and no players listed as doubtful. Diego Valencia and Branco Ampuero are out with cruciate ligament injuries, while Gary Medel is sidelined with a tear and Montes is out with a right-foot injury.

Recommended pick: Away win.

Concepcion come into this in decent form, having won their last two league matches, including a 2-0 home victory over O'Higgins in their previous outing. That was also their third win in the last four league games. Even so, they have only 17 points and are still stuck in the relegation battle, while their return of 16 goals is among the bottom three in the Chilean top flight. They have also managed just three home league wins this season.

Universidad Catolica drew 3-3 at home with La Serena in dramatic fashion in their last league match. League top scorer Zampedri is in outstanding form, scoring five goals across his last two league games to take his season tally to 17. The team have posted three wins, one draw and one defeat in their last five league matches, and they currently sit second in the table. Universidad Catolica have scored 38 goals this season, the best attacking record in the league.

Although Concepcion have improved recently, the more consistent Universidad Catolica look capable of taking the points thanks to their firepower.

In the first league meeting between the sides this season, Universidad Catolica won 2-0 at home against Concepcion. That is the only meeting between the two teams in recent years.