Universidad Católica vs Palestino Prediction, Match Preview and Betting Tips, Sunday, 23 November

In the upcoming Primera División clash, Universidad Católica will face Palestino on Sunday, 23 November. This match promises to be a significant encounter in the Chilean league, as both teams are looking to secure vital points. Universidad Católica, renowned for their strong home performances, will aim to leverage their advantage against Palestino, who are eager to climb the league standings.

While the venue details remain unspecified, anticipation for this match is high among fans and bettors alike. Universidad Católica’s recent form has been impressive, making them slight favourites. However, Palestino’s resilience and ability to perform under pressure cannot be underestimated. This match could have substantial implications for both teams’ positions in the Primera División, making it a must-watch for fans and an intriguing prospect for those considering betting tips.

Universidad Católica vs Palestino Prediction & Betting Tip

Betting Tip	Odds
More goals in the second half	2.08

Given their recent form and strong performances, we recommend betting on most goals being scored in the second half of this match. Universidad Católica have shown a trend of stronger second-half performances, while Palestino’s recent form suggests they are more likely to concede goals later in the game.

• Universidad Católica have won 5 out of their last 6 matches, indicating strong overall form, especially in the latter stages of the game.
• Palestino have lost 4 out of their last 6 matches, showing a tendency to struggle, particularly in the second half.
• Historical match data suggests that the second half is more goal-rich for both teams, aligning with our recommended tip.

Betting Odds

Universidad Católica are tipped as favourites for this clash, with betting odds reflecting their strong home advantage. However, Palestino’s odds suggest they could spring a surprise, especially given their knack for upsetting the odds away from home.

Betting Tip	Odds
Universidad Católica to win	2.23
Draw	3.15
Palestino to win	3.02

For those looking to place a bet, the draw is also an enticing option, offering decent returns. The odds indicate a closely contested match, with potential value in both teams to score and the over 2.5 goals market.

Universidad Católica Analysis & Past Performance

Universidad Católica currently sit in a commendable second position in the Primera División, having amassed 51 points. Their recent form has been impressive, with four wins out of their last five matches, demonstrating their resilience and consistency. Notably, their latest victory came against La Serena, where they secured a 1-0 win, showcasing a robust defensive performance.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
La Serena	Universidad Católica	0 – 1 (Win)	Primera División	8 Nov 2025
Universidad Católica	O’Higgins	0 – 2 (Loss)	Primera División	2 Nov 2025
Universidad Católica	Universidad de Chile	1 – 0 (Win)	Primera División	26 Oct 2025
Everton CD	Universidad Católica	0 – 3 (Win)	Primera División	19 Oct 2025
Universidad Católica	CD Ñublense	1 – 0 (Win)	Primera División	9 Oct 2025

Recent Form:
In their last five games, Universidad Católica have averaged 1.20 goals scored per match while conceding a mere 0.40 goals on average. Their defensive solidity is further highlighted by the fact that they have kept four clean sheets in these fixtures. However, their attack, led by top scorer Fernando Zampedri, who has netted 15 goals, remains potent, averaging 1.6 goals per game when considering both teams’ goals.

Performance Statistics:

• WLWWW

Over the last ten matches, Universidad Católica have shown excellent form, winning eight games and only losing once. They have managed to score in nine of these matches, averaging 1.70 goals per game, while their defence has proven resolute, conceding just 0.60 goals on average. Their home form is particularly strong, with a win ratio of 0.70 across ten home fixtures. This balance of defensive strength and attacking prowess makes them a formidable force in the league.

Universidad Católica Suspensions & Injuries

Universidad Católica face significant challenges with key players unavailable due to injuries and suspensions. The midfield will particularly feel the absence of Fernando Zuqui, who is sidelined with a leg injury, and Cristian Cuevas, out with a groin injury until late November. Additionally, Carlos Arancibia’s muscle injury further depletes their options. These absences could force coach Daniel Garnero to rely on less experienced players or adjust his tactical approach, potentially impacting the team’s fluidity and control in midfield.

Player	Suspension	Matches Remaining	Expected Return
Ignacio Pérez	Yellow/red card	1	Unknown

The suspension of Ignacio Pérez, due to an accumulation of yellow/red cards, means Universidad Católica will need to find a suitable replacement to maintain their defensive solidity. Pérez’s absence could lead to a reshuffle in the midfield, with Eduard Bello or Alfred Canales possibly stepping up to fill the void. This situation presents a tactical dilemma for Garnero, who must ensure the team remains competitive against Palestino.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Carlos Arancibia	Muscle injury	Unknown
Fernando Zuqui	Leg injury	Unknown
Cristian Cuevas	Groin injury	Late November 2025

With these key players missing, Universidad Católica’s depth will be tested. The unavailability of regular starters may influence their performance and betting odds, potentially making Palestino a more attractive option for punters. The team’s ability to adapt and find effective replacements will be crucial in determining the outcome of this fixture.

Universidad Católica Key Players

Fernando Zampedri stands as Universidad Católica’s top scorer with an impressive tally of 15 goals this season. As the spearhead of the attack, his goal-scoring prowess is pivotal, often finding himself in the right place at the right time to convert chances. His presence in the forward line is complemented by Eduard Bello and Clemente Montes, who provide width and creativity, ensuring Zampedri receives ample opportunities to add to his goal tally.

In midfield, the experienced Gary Medel plays a crucial role, orchestrating play and offering defensive solidity. His ability to break up opposition attacks and distribute the ball effectively makes him an indispensable component of the team’s tactical setup. Defensively, Eugenio Mena’s contributions from left-back are significant, providing both defensive cover and offensive support.

• Goalkeeper: Vicente Bernedo
• Defenders: Tomás Asta-Buruaga, Daniel González, Branco Ampuero, Eugenio Mena
• Midfielders: Alfred Canales, Gary Medel, Jhojan Valencia
• Forwards: Eduard Bello, Fernando Zampedri, Clemente Montes

Expected lineup for Universidad Católica

Universidad Católica Tactics and Formation

Universidad Católica Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-5-1
• Key Forward: Fernando Zampedri
• Midfield Balance: Ignacio Pérez and Eduard Bello
• Defensive Strength: Four clean sheets in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: Strong defensive organisation and effective counterattacks.

Universidad Católica’s 4-5-1 formation is designed to provide a robust defensive setup while supporting quick transitions. With Fernando Zampedri leading the attack, his role as the lone striker is crucial in converting limited chances into goals. The midfield, featuring Ignacio Pérez and Eduard Bello, offers a blend of defensive stability and creative playmaking.

Defensively, Universidad Católica have been impressive, securing four clean sheets in their last five outings. The defensive line, composed of Tomás Asta-Buruaga, Daniel González, Branco Ampuero, and Eugenio Mena, provides a solid backbone that has been difficult for opponents to break down.

Offensively, the team relies on swift counterattacks, leveraging the speed and creativity of Clemente Montes and Alfred Canales. Despite their defensive focus, Universidad Católica have managed to maintain a strong goal-scoring presence, as evidenced by their recent performances.

Palestino Analysis & Past Performance

Palestino’s recent form has been inconsistent, with a record of two wins and three losses in their last five matches. They suffered a narrow 1-2 defeat against Coquimbo Unido at home in their most recent fixture, showcasing vulnerabilities in defence despite having 59% possession. Their attack has been reliable, scoring in all recent matches with an average of 1.40 goals per game, but the defence has struggled, conceding an average of 1.60 goals per match.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Palestino	Coquimbo Unido	1 – 2 (Loss)	Primera División	8 Nov 2025
Palestino	Deportes Limache	2 – 1 (Win)	Primera División	3 Nov 2025
Palestino	Everton CD	2 – 1 (Win)	Primera División	24 Oct 2025
Universidad de Chile	Palestino	2 – 1 (Loss)	Primera División	13 Oct 2025
Palestino	O’Higgins	1 – 2 (Loss)	Primera División	13 Sep 2025

Recent Form:

• LWWLL

Palestino have found the back of the net in each of their last five games, yet have failed to keep a single clean sheet, highlighting a pressing need for defensive improvements. Their overall win ratio stands at 40%, but their away performance has been less impressive, with only 20% wins across recent away fixtures. Sitting 5th in the league with 45 points, they’ll need to bolster their defensive strategies to maintain or improve their league standing. Joe Abrigo, the team’s top scorer with 8 goals, remains a key figure in their attack, providing consistent offensive threats.

Palestino Suspensions & Injuries

Palestino face a critical challenge with the suspension of Ariel Martínez due to a red card, leaving a gap in their midfield for the upcoming clash against Universidad Católica. Martínez’s absence could potentially disrupt the team’s central playmaking, as he is integral to orchestrating attacks and maintaining possession. His suspension places additional pressure on players like Julián Fernández and Francisco Montes to step up and fill the void left by Martínez’s absence.

Player	Suspension	Matches Remaining	Expected Return
Ariel Martínez	Red card	1	Unknown

Without any injuries to report, Palestino’s squad depth remains relatively unaffected, allowing them to maintain their usual tactical setup. Coach Lucas Bovaglio will likely rely on his regular starters, with the exception of Martínez, to execute a balanced game plan. This continuity in selection should help mitigate the tactical impact of Martínez’s suspension to some extent.

The absence of Ariel Martínez could influence betting markets, as Palestino might struggle to sustain their midfield dominance against a strong Universidad Católica side. Bettors should consider the potential impact of this suspension on Palestino’s ability to control the game’s pace and create scoring opportunities.

Palestino Key Players

Palestino’s attacking threat is spearheaded by their top scorer Joe Abrigo, who has netted 8 goals this season. Abrigo’s role as a central midfielder allows him to orchestrate plays and make decisive runs into the box, posing a constant threat to Universidad Católica’s defence. His ability to link up with Bryan Carrasco and Jonathan Benítez in the forward line is key to Palestino’s offensive strategy.

In the midfield, Julián Fernández plays a pivotal role in maintaining possession and dictating the tempo of the game. His defensive capabilities complement Francisco Montes, who often pushes forward to support the attack. In defence, Cristian Suárez’s leadership and experience are crucial in organising the backline, while Jason León offers pace and agility on the flanks.

Expected lineup for Palestino:

• Goalkeeper: Sebastián Pérez
• Defence: Ian Garguez, José Bizama, Cristian Suárez, Jason León
• Midfield: Julián Fernández, Francisco Montes, Joe Abrigo
• Forward: Bryan Carrasco, Jonathan Benítez, Junior Arias

Palestino Tactics and Formation

Palestino Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-2-3-1
• Key Forward: Junior Arias
• Midfield Pivot: Julián Fernández and Francisco Montes
• Defensive Weakness: Zero clean sheets in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: High possession with a focus on attacking through the wings.

Palestino often line up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, which provides a balance between defence and attack. The midfield is anchored by Julián Fernández and Francisco Montes, who are tasked with breaking up opposition play and distributing the ball effectively. Joe Abrigo, a pivotal figure in attack, operates behind the striker, linking play with wide players Bryan Carrasco and Jonathan Benítez.

Defensively, Palestino have struggled recently, failing to secure a clean sheet in their last five matches. The backline, featuring Ian Garguez and Cristian Suárez, has been prone to conceding, averaging 1.60 goals against per game in this period.

Offensively, Palestino maintain a high possession game, aiming to exploit spaces on the flanks with their wingers’ pace and creativity. Despite their defensive frailties, this approach has seen them score in every recent match, with Junior Arias leading the line and looking to capitalise on any opportunities created.

Universidad Católica vs Palestino H2H Record

Universidad Católica have a strong head-to-head record against Palestino, boasting 27 wins out of 46 encounters, while Palestino have managed just 10 victories, with 10 matches ending in a draw. Their last meeting in the Primera División ended in a 1-1 draw, showing how closely contested these fixtures can be.

In the Primera División, Universidad Católica have clearly dominated, consistently outperforming Palestino. However, recent matches have been tighter, with the last three league games all ending in draws, suggesting Palestino are closing the gap.

Home Team	Away Team	Score	Competition	Date
Palestino	Universidad Católica	1 – 1	Primera División	2025-06-01
Universidad Católica	Palestino	1 – 1 (Penalty shoot-out: 3 – 4)	Copa Sudamericana Qualifiers	2025-03-05
Universidad Católica	Palestino	1 – 1	Primera División	2024-08-03
Palestino	Universidad Católica	0 – 2	Primera División	2024-03-02
Palestino	Universidad Católica	3 – 0	Primera División	2023-08-13