Cuiabá vs Fluminense Prediction: Fluminense remains in the last place

Fluminense's match with Athletico-PR was postponed due to the Paranaenses' busy schedule. Mano Menezes, the coach who replaced Fernando Diniz at the helm of the Cariocas, had ten days to train tactical aspects with the players, something rare in the Brasileirão. Fluminense fans expect their team to show a different attitude against Cuiabá. The Tricolor das Laranjeiras has only won one game in the competition and is still in last place.

Cuiabá drew 1-1 away against Palestino in the first leg of the Copa Sudamericana Playoff. Deyverson returned after a long absence and scored the goal for the Mato Grosso do Sul team. In the Brasileirão, the Golden Dorado achieved a magnificent and unexpected victory at Bahia. The Baianos had won all their home matches, but Cuiabá is a team that has proven it can fight for victory in any stadium. The Mato-Grossenses beat São Paulo at the Morumbi and drew with Flamengo at the Maracanã. This time, Cuiabá beat Bahia 2-1 at the Arena Fonte Nova. Isidro Pitta scored both goals, shining one more time this season. Petit's men are in 15th place with 17 points and one game in hand. It would be important to beat Fluminense, a direct competitor in the relegation battle.

Veteran Thiago Silva is the great hope of Fluminense fans. The former PSG and Brazil international has yet to debut for the club, but he finally can play, as the transfer window in Brazil is now open. It's still uncertain whether the central defender will play against Cuiabá. The team needs stability in defense, and Thiago Silva could be very useful to the club. The game at the Arena Pantanal is crucial for the Copa Libertadores holders. 

Cuiabá is highly motivated after the resounding victory in Salvador and is the favorite for this game. Fluminense hasn't won in the Brasileirão since April and is a serious candidate to fall into the Série B. Mano Menezes has had ten days to prepare this match, which contrasts with Cuiabá's short rest period, with a game in Chile in midweek. Fluminense will probably be in better physical condition than the home side, which leads me to bet on a draw.