Corinthians vs Flamengo Prediction: The Clássico do Povo has seen happier days

Corinthians and Flamengo, the clubs with the largest 'torcidas' in Brazil, face off in the so-called People's Classic. This match happens when both teams are in crisis, with coach changes and painful defeats. The millions of fans of these two giants are living through unhappy days, and this season won't have any titles to celebrate. Even so, all the fans will demand that the players proudly defend the symbols of Brazil's two most popular clubs.

This week, the Timão missed out on what became, at some point, the big goal of the season: the Copa Sudamericana. It was an unfortunate but somewhat expected start for coach Mano Menezes, who could not avoid elimination in the semi-finals. Fortaleza had drawn 1-1 at the Neo Química Arena in the first leg and confirmed its place in the final by beating Corinthians 2-0. The former Brazil coach arrived at the club a few days ago to replace Vanderlei Luxemburgo and couldn't pull off a miracle. The Timão now must focus on the Série A to qualify for the next Copa Sudamericana. The pressure on the players is enormous, and the fans demand a reaction in the Clássico do Povo.

Like the opposing side, Flamengo also fired its coach, Jorge Sampaoli. Despite the strong rumors about the new manager, nothing is official yet. U20 coach Mário Jorge will be back on the Flamengo bench after the 1-0 home win against Bahia. The Scarlet-Black is in 5th place with 43 points and is very close to its opponents, one point behind Grêmio and Palmeiras and two behind second-placed RB Bragantino. The team's current goal is to finish in the top four and qualify for the Copa Libertadores group stage.

Both teams are going through a transition period in command. Mano Menezes arrived at Corinthians a week ago, while Flamengo has an interim coach. It's, therefore, difficult to predict how the teams will perform in the classic. The Paulista's confidence probably isn't the best, but Menezes has a lot of experience and can motivate the players. Flamengo isn't in great form either, so I'm betting on a draw.