Fluminense vs Grêmio Prediction: Grêmio will be looking to maintain fourth place

Grêmio's main objective is to reach the Copa Libertadores group stage. But to do so, it must at least maintain its fourth-place finish in the final round of the Brasileirão. The Gaúchos have a long history and tradition in South America's most important competition, which they have won three times, in 1983, 1995, and 2017. If it wins at the Maracanã, Grêmio will secure qualification. Otherwise, it'll have to hope that Botafogo doesn't win against Internacional.

This season, the Tricolor Carioca achieved the greatest feat in its history, winning the Copa Libertadores for the first time. The Brasileirão fell to the background due to the distance to the top places and to prioritize the South American competition. Fluminense coach Fernando Diniz often rested his players before Copa Libertadores matches. The team is in 7th place with the same points as Athletico-PR, and a win against Grêmio would secure the position.

The Gauchos go to the Maracana to win, as a draw is not enough to keep fourth place if Botafogo wins. If the Cariocas draw, Grêmio doesn't need a draw either, as it has the advantage over them due to its number of wins. It will be Luis Suárez's last game in the club shirt. He scored the winning goal against Vasco da Gama in the last round in his farewell match at the Grêmio Arena.

If Fluminense is a slight favorite, the truth is that the team is not fighting for any goals. Grêmio needs to win to secure fourth place; historically, it has done well against Fluminense. I'm going to bet on both teams scoring goals. Grêmio should be competitive at the Maracanã, but its defense is weak.