Santos enters this Copa Sudamericana round-of-16 first leg as clear favorites against Ecuadorian side CSD Macará, reflecting the Brazilian club's superior squad depth, higher average possession, and stronger expected goals metrics in recent matches. Playing at Estádio Urbano Caldeira provides a significant home advantage, bolstered by Santos' historical edge in continental ties against South American opponents from smaller leagues. Multiple injury absences, including defenders like Lucas Veríssimo and Gustavo Henrique, create some uncertainty in the backline, yet the overall roster quality and attacking output still position Santos to control proceedings. Macará, with limited recent head-to-head history and lower scoring averages, faces a steep challenge on the road, though the visitors may target a resilient defensive display to keep the tie alive for the return leg. The draw remains a plausible secondary outcome given the single-leg format and potential for cautious play.