The fourth round of the Copa Libertadores group stage brings an intriguing clash between Cusco FC and Estudiantes de La Plata. The Peruvian side will host the match at the Inca Garcilaso de la Vega Stadium, hoping to turn around a difficult start to their continental campaign. After three consecutive defeats in the competition, Cusco FC find themselves at the bottom of Group A and in urgent need of points to keep their hopes alive. Meanwhile, Estudiantes travel to Peru in a much more comfortable position, sitting second in the group and showing solid form both domestically and internationally.

Cusco FC’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Cusco FC enter this match with mixed results in recent weeks. Their last five matches across all competitions have produced two wins, one draw, and two defeats, averaging 1.0 goal scored and 2.4 conceded per game. In the Copa Libertadores, however, their record has been disappointing: three losses from three games, with an average of just 0.3 goals scored and 1.7 conceded per match. These numbers underline the team’s struggles to find consistency on the continental stage.

Despite their poor start in the Libertadores, Cusco FC have shown resilience at home. They have not lost at half time in 21 of their last 23 matches, and over 0.5 goals have been scored in the second half in 18 of their last 20 games. Their most recent outing, a 2-2 draw against Sporting Cristal on May 3, suggests that the team is capable of competing when playing in front of their supporters. The return of key players such as Lucas Colitto after suspension and the good form of striker Facundo Callejo—who has already scored eight goals this year—could provide the spark they need to challenge Estudiantes.

However, defensive issues remain a major concern. Cusco FC have conceded 26 goals in 16 matches this season, and their goalkeeper Pedro Díaz has struggled recently, allowing 12 goals in his last five appearances. To stand a chance in this encounter, the Peruvian side will need to tighten up at the back and make the most of their attacking opportunities.

Estudiantes de La Plata’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Estudiantes de La Plata arrive in Cusco in excellent form. The Argentine side have gone unbeaten in their last five matches, winning three and drawing two, while averaging 1.2 goals scored and just 0.4 conceded per game. Their defensive solidity has been a defining feature of their season, with only 10 goals conceded in 19 matches across the Libertadores and domestic competitions. In the group stage, Estudiantes have recorded one win and two draws, keeping them well positioned for qualification.

Playing away from home has not been a problem for Estudiantes. They recently defeated Platense 0-2 on May 3, and their overall away record shows remarkable consistency. In fact, under 3.5 total goals have been scored in each of their last 18 away matches, and at least one team has failed to score in the second half in their last 20 games. These trends highlight their disciplined defensive approach and ability to control the tempo of matches on the road.

Offensively, Estudiantes have shared the scoring responsibilities among several players. Midfielder Tomás Palacios and forward Guido Carrillo have been particularly effective, combining for seven goals and three assists so far this season. However, they will be without key midfielder Lucas Piovi, who is suspended after accumulating too many yellow cards. Even so, the team’s depth and organization make them a formidable opponent for any side in the competition.

Cusco FC vs Estudiantes de La Plata Analysis and Prediction

This match promises to be a tactical battle between two teams with contrasting styles. Cusco FC will rely on their home advantage and attacking duo of Colitto and Callejo to break through a well-structured Estudiantes defense. The visitors, on the other hand, will look to maintain their compact shape and capitalize on counterattacks, a strategy that has served them well throughout the season.

Historically, Estudiantes have had the upper hand in this fixture, with two wins and one draw in their previous meetings. Cusco FC have scored an average of just 0.3 goals per game in those encounters, while conceding 1.7. Given these numbers and the current form of both sides, a low-scoring match seems likely. The defensive discipline of Estudiantes combined with Cusco’s recent struggles in front of goal point toward a cautious and tightly contested affair.

• Ranking in Copa Libertadores: Cusco FC 4th, Estudiantes 2nd


• Last head-to-head: 2-1 on April 14, 2026


• Over/Under 2.5 goals: Over 43%, Under 57%


• BTTS: Yes 48%, No 52%


• Win probabilities: Cusco FC 38%, Draw 28%, Estudiantes 34%

All indicators suggest that this will be a balanced contest, but one where defenses could dominate. Cusco FC’s need for a result may push them forward, yet Estudiantes’ organization and efficiency on the counter could prove decisive.

Cusco FC vs Estudiantes de La Plata prediction from BetMines: Under 2.5 goals with 57% probability.