RIO DE JANEIRO, April 24 (Xinhua) -- Reigning Brazilian Serie A champions Palmeiras could secure a berth in the Copa Libertadores knockout phase if they defeat Penarol in their Group E match on Wednesday.
But to do so, Bolivian outfit Jorge Wilstermann must avoid losing their away clash against Argentina's Atletico Tucuman on Tuesday.
Palmeiras currently lead the group with seven points from three matches, one point ahead of second-placed Jorge Wilstermann.
Uruguay's Penarol are third with three points and Atletico Tucuman fourth with one point.
According to Palmeiras' former Brazilian international midfielder Jean, Penarol will be a formidable opponent at their Campeon del Siglo stadium in Montevideo, despite their poor form so far in the competition.
"We have to look at the bigger picture," Jean said. "It's important to secure our place in the next phase as soon as possible. We are going out to get three points. But when playing away from home the main thing is not to lose. A draw would be an excellent result."
Other teams that can book a place this week in the next stage of South America's top club competition are Brazil's Gremio, Argentina's Godoy Cruz and Paraguayan outfit Club Guarani.
Gremio and Club Guarani, who both have seven points, will meet at the former's Gremio Arena in Porto Alegre on Thursday while Godoy Cruz are away to Sport Boys Warnes of Bolivia on the same day.
