In Group G of the Copa Libertadores, Chapecoense will host Lanus at the Arena Conda this Thursday, March 16, 2017 (3:30 PM Pacific). After one match, Chapecoense has three points and Lanus is yet, to sum up points, both teams could use the three points from this match.
Chapecoense received national fame last year because of a horrific plane crash that left 71 fatalities, including most of the Brazilian team’s coaches, players and staff. The team was on its way to play the 2016 Copa Sudamericana final against Atletico Nacional. The COMNEBOL gave Chapecoense the Copa Sudamericana title upon Atletico Nacional’s request and is now in the 2017 Copa Libertadores.
Since then, Chapecoense has built a new team, comprised mostly of players out on loan from various other Brazilian clubs. A mix of experienced players and young talent are on the team led by manager Vagner Mancini. ‘Chape’ have already played their first game in this Group G of the Copa Libertadores, having beat Venezuelan club Zulia 2-1 away from home. The goalscorers for the team in that game were Reinaldo, a 27-year-old fullback on loan from Sao Paulo and Luiz Antonio a 26-year-old midfielder on loan from Flamengo.
Other interesting players on the club include goalkeeper Artur Moraes who has had an extensive career, even playing in Europe with Benfica, Roma, and other clubs as well. Striker, Wellington Paulista, is also a player with a wealth of experience having an extensive career with various Brazilian clubs since 2003. There should be a large crowd out to support the ‘Big Green’ and having that home support can be the deciding factor that catapults the team past a tough Lanus side.
Lanus is currently having a decent campaign in sixth place with 26 points, eight points back of Boca Juniors in first place. In their first game in the Copa Libertadores against Uruguayan side, Nacional, Lanus fell by a score of 1-0 at home. The Argentine side is led by Jorge Almiron as the head coach, who managed several teams in Mexico including Club Tijuana. Another former member of the Xoloitzcuintles is also found on Lanus in striker, Jose Sand who has played for various teams in his 16-year career.
Sand is currently having a nice season in the Argentine Primera Division having scored six goals in 12 games as a starter. Another player who has six goals this season in the Argentine Primera Division for Lanus is Lautaro Acosta, who is a dangerous player with rapid pace that can make a difference in the game. The game should be an interesting one t the Arena Conda, with people keeping a close eye on Chapecoense in this competition.
How to Watch Chapecoense vs Lanus
How to Watch Chapecoense vs Lanus:
TV Schedule: No US Listings
Watch Live Online: Fox Soccer 2GO
