Fluminense and Sao Paulo face off in an important Brasileiro clash with both teams striving for a crucial victory as the league season nears its end.
Only a point separates these two clubs, sitting eighth and tenth in the standings, and a win could significantly impact their positions in the table.
Match Preview:
Fluminense, fresh off their Copa Libertadores triumph, is enjoying an upturn in form with a three-game unbeaten streak.
Despite securing qualification for the upcoming Libertadores, coach Fernando Diniz aims to maintain their momentum and chase a higher position in the league, aiming for the seventh spot currently held by Athletico Paranaense. They head into this match after a 1-1 draw against Flamengo.
Sao Paulo, having secured their Copa Libertadores berth through the Copa do Brasil win, looks to extend their four-game unbeaten run in the Brasileiro.
Under coach Dorival Junior, they’ve clinched crucial wins against Cruzeiro and RB Bragantino and aim to finish higher than their ninth position from the previous season.
Recent Form:
Fluminense:
- Last six Brasileiro matches: L W L L D D
- Last six matches in all competitions: W L L W D D
Sao Paulo:
- Last six Brasileiro matches: W L D W W D
- Last six matches in all competitions: W L D L D W
Team News:
Fluminense will miss defender Nino due to his international duties with Brazil, following his dismissal in the previous match.
Veteran David Braz may step in to replace him. Yony Gonzalez, who scored the equalizer but sustained an injury, might be sidelined for this game.
Sao Paulo’s lineup will be affected by international call-ups, with Nahuel Ferraresi, Robert Arboleda, and James Rodriguez absent. Alan Franco could replace Arboleda in the defense.
Possible Lineups:
Fluminense:(4-2-3-1)
Fabio;
Xavier, Braz, Santos, Maritnelli;
Marcelo, Andre;
Arias, Ganso, Keno;
Kennedy
Sao Paulo:(4-2-3-1)
Rafael;
Rafinha, Franco, Beraldo, Paulista;
Alisson, Maia;
Rato, Luciano, Araujo;
Juan
Prediction: Fluminense 1-1 Sao Paulo
Both teams head into this game unbeaten for a few matches, making it an evenly contested encounter.
Fluminense might feel less pressure following their recent Libertadores victory, but Sao Paulo’s current form suggests they’re confident enough to secure a draw in this competitive fixture.
