Atlético-MG vs Flamengo Prediction: The Rooster meets the Vulture

Two big clubs will meet for the first time at the Arena MRV. The Miners haven't been happy in their new stadium recently. In their last four home games, they've drawn three and lost 4-0 against Palmeiras in an embarrassing defeat. The next opponent is the Série A leader, Flamengo, so the task doesn't look easy. To break the winless streak, the best version of Atlético Mineiro will have to show up.

The game with Atlético Goianiense was played in the morning, but the Rooster didn't wake up early. The visitors started the game in style and scored in the 11th minute through Luiz Fernando, who chipped the ball over goalkeeper Matheus Mendes. The Miners reacted and equalized in the 23rd minute through Paulinho, and it seemed that they could turn the result around sooner or later. That didn't happen, and the Dragon continued to be very dangerous on the counter-attacks, with several chances to score a second goal in the first half. In the second half, Atlético controlled the game better but couldn't find spaces to break through the Goianos' defense. Milito's team is in 11th place with 18 points and one game in hand. Flamengo is in first place with 27, so Atlético can still dream of reaching the top of the table. Beating the Cariocas would be ideal for recovering in the standings.

The Vulture struggled against Cruzeiro but secured the three points. Pedro opened the scoring in the 16th minute after a sprint and a fine assist from Gerson. The Miners showed great spirit and equalized in the 38th minute through Matheus Pereira. The contest remained balanced in the second half, without many scoring chances. However, in the 65th minute, Fabricio Bruno scored from a set piece with a powerful header to clinch the final result. It wasn't a brilliant display, but it was enough to win and keep the lead. Flamengo will now travel to Minas Gerais to face the always fearsome Atlético Mineiro. If the Cariocas fail to win, they risk losing the first place, as Palmeiras has just one point less.

It's a game with a lot of history between two inter-state rivals. In the 87 times they met, Atlético has won 33 and Flamengo 34. The Miners have been struggling at home, but on the other hand, Flamengo also lost its most recent away game to Juventude. I'm betting on a Double Chance in favor of Atlético Mineiro with a maximum of four goals in the match. Although a draw is the most likely outcome, the home side will give everything to beat the Série A leader.