Athletico-PR vs Flamengo Prediction: Flamengo's lead is at stake

The Paranaenses and the Cariocas will fight for first place in one of the big games of Round 9. Flamengo shares the lead with Bahia on 17 points, but Botafogo and Athletico are only one point behind. If Flamengo doesn't win this highly challenging game, there could be changes at the top of the league. No team has won at the Ligga Arena yet in this Brasileirão.

The Hurricane beat Criciúma at home 3-1 but got off to a bad start, conceding a goal as early as 8'. Athletico turned the game around with two headers from Uruguayan Mastriani. Tomás Cuello, in the 79th minute, scored the 3-1, setting the final result. The Paranaenses have won all four home games in the Brasileirão, scoring 12 of their 16 points in the league. The strength shown by the team at the Ligga Arena serves as a warning to Flamengo.

Luis Araújo was the hero against Grêmio, scoring both goals in the 2-1 victory. The left-footed player showed his class with two excellent shots, one from outside the area. Despite the many absentees between players in the national teams and injured ones, Flamengo showed quality and won deservedly. Grêmio wasted a few chances with the score still at zero, but then Luís Araújo's inspiration made the difference. Before scoring, the winger had already hit the post. It was Flamengo's sixth straight win, three for the league. The Cariocas now have a tricky game in Curitiba against Athletico-PR, where they could lose the lead in the Brasileirão if they don't win.

It will probably be an even game. Athletico-PR is a strong team, especially at home, so it could have the upper hand and try to get a goal. Flamengo is dangerous with space and can take advantage to counterattack. The Paranaenses have won all their home games, so their confidence levels are high as they try to win. A draw may not be enough for Flamengo to maintain the lead in the Série A, but it would still be a good result. Any bet on this game carries risk, as any detail can swing the game either way. I'm leaning towards a draw.