Racing vs Fortaleza

High-Stakes Clash in Group E as Racing Club Host Fortaleza in Copa Libertadores Decider

Estadio Presidente Perón is set for a thrilling Group E showdown on Thursday as Racing Club take on Fortaleza in the final matchday of the Copa Libertadores group stage. With both teams eyeing crucial points, the game promises high drama as they battle for knockout-round positioning.

Racing Club, riding a wave of strong form, are chasing their third straight win in the competition. Meanwhile, Fortaleza arrive in Argentina hoping to turn around a recent slump after suffering three consecutive defeats.

Racing’s Red-Hot Form

Under Gustavo Costas, Racing have been impressive, winning six of their last eight matches (with one draw and one loss) across all competitions. Their latest triumph came on May 15, when they demolished Colo-Colo 4-0 in the Libertadores, thanks to a first-half brace from Adrián Martínez and second-half goals from Santiago Solari and Juan Pablo Balboa.

That victory secured their knockout-stage qualification and put them firmly atop Group E with 10 points—two clear of Fortaleza. With a chance to finish as group winners, Racing will rely on their strong home record, having won three of their last five at El Cilindro, all with clean sheets.

However, a two-week break since their last match could leave them slightly rusty, while Fortaleza have stayed sharp with recent Brasileiro fixtures.

Fortaleza’s Struggles and Libertadores Resilience

Juan Pablo Vojvoda’s side has endured a difficult 2025, winning just twice in their last 13 matches across all competitions. Their woes continued on Monday with a 2-0 loss to Cruzeiro, leaving them just one point above the relegation zone in Brazil’s top flight.

Yet, in the Copa Libertadores, Fortaleza have been a different beast—unbeaten in four games (two wins, two draws). Their solid campaign has them second in the group, but they’re only two points ahead of Atlético Bucaramanga, meaning they may need at least a draw to secure advancement.

Their away form (one win, six draws, two losses in their last nine) offers some hope, and a victory could even see them snatch top spot. However, given their superior goal difference over Bucaramanga, even a single point might be enough to progress.

What’s at Stake?

• Racing win or draw: Confirms 1st place in Group E.

• Fortaleza win: Could leapfrog Racing for top spot.

• Fortaleza draw: Likely secures 2nd place unless Bucaramanga pull off a shock.