Athletico-PR vs Atlético-MG Prediction: The Paranaenses must win

The two teams will meet during the international break to play a postponed match from Round 19. The game is vital for Athletico-PR, which is currently in the relegation zone with 34 points. If the Paranaenses win, they will join Juventude, Criciúma, and Fluminense with 37 points and will leave the Z4 thanks to their superior number of victories, the tiebreaker criteria.

The Hurricane lost 2-1 away to São Paulo but was close to getting a point, conceding the second goal in the 89th minute. Athletico was well organized, and its players showed determination by managing to level the score after trailing 1-0, but in the end, suffered a heavy blow. Although the performance was acceptable, it was the second consecutive defeat for Lucho González's men, who need to win their next game more than ever. The Paranaenses have six games left to prove they deserve to play in the Série A next year.

After losing the Copa do Brasil final to Flamengo, Atlético Mineiro traveled to Rio to face the Cariocas again, and this time drew 0-0. The game was almost always a one-sided contest, with Flamengo trying to score in any way possible but facing an unbeatable Everson. Atlético's goalkeeper recorded one of the best performances of his career, making countless saves, including a penalty from David Luiz. The Miners are in 10th place and could move up another position if they win in Curitiba. The target is to climb as high up the table as possible to qualify for the Copa Libertadores.

It's not an easy game to predict, as neither team is in a good moment. Athletico-PR is in the relegation zone and under enormous pressure, while Atlético Mineiro lost the Copa do Brasil final and hasn't won in six matches. The game is crucial for the Paranaenses, who will get out of the Z4 if they win, but they must control their emotions to get the victory. The visitors will want to return to winning ways, but that won't be possible without scoring. The Miners haven't scored in three games, although two were against Flamengo. I'm going for a draw.