Coquimbo Unido vs Club Nacional Prediction 08.04.2026 | Copa Libertadores

Coquimbo Unido approach their Copa Libertadores Group B opener occupying 6th place in the Chilean Primera Division, having endured a somewhat inconsistent start to the 2026 campaign, reflected in a balanced return of four wins and four defeats.

Following a setback against Universidad de Chile in mid-March, the Pirates have shown notable resilience, putting together a four-match unbeaten run, three of which have ended in victory. Among those results was a thrilling 3-2 success over Cobresal, a performance that has lifted morale within the squad and injected a renewed sense of optimism ahead of their continental assignment.

Nevertheless, head coach Hernan Caputto will be aware that defensive improvements are required if his side are to make a positive start on the South American stage, with Coquimbo having conceded in each of their six home fixtures so far in 2026.

There are also concerns on the team news front, as Paraguayan forward Luis Riveros remains a doubt for Thursday’s opener due to an injury that has sidelined him for the last three matches, although the return of Nicolas Johansen from a minor issue provides a timely boost for the hosts.

Meanwhile, Club Nacional make the trip to Chile as one of the standout contenders in the 2026 campaign, currently sitting fourth in the Uruguayan Primera Division and entering this continental opener in solid form, having secured three wins from their last four outings.

Under the astute guidance of Jadson Viera, the three-time Copa Libertadores champions are well accustomed to the demands of the group stage, and they will be targeting another deep run in this year’s competition, although recent defensive frailties remain a concern after conceding two or more goals in each of their last three away matches.

Despite their rich pedigree, Nacional must overcome an inconsistent run of results, alternating between three victories and three defeats across their previous six fixtures, if they are to claim a positive result against a Coquimbo Unido side renowned for its formidable home resilience.

On the team news front, backup goalkeeper Luis Mejia and left-back Camilo Caándido remain sidelined with muscle injuries, while much will be expected of experienced centre-back Sebastian Coates to marshal the defence and help the visitors keep things tight at the back.