Fluminense vs Palmeiras Prediction: Big game day at the Maracanã

Two big clubs face off at the King of Stadiums, the Maracanã. Fifth-placed Fluminense takes on second-placed Palmeiras in an encounter with plenty of tradition. In 98 games, Palmeiras has won 58 times while Fluminense has won 31, and there were 14 draws. At the start of the competition, these two clubs were among the strongest contenders to win the title. The truth is that no one counted on the phenomenal Botafogo, who leads the league with great advantage. The Cariocas are 15 points behind their rivals from Rio, while the Paulistas are 12 away. Both teams want to win the game and wait for Botafogo to drop points.

In a game marked by the serious injury of Luciano Sánchez in a tackle made by Marcelo, Fluminense drew 1-1 with Argentinos Juniors this week. The game took place at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium in Buenos Aires, and it was the first leg of the Copa Libertadores Round of 16. The intense duel and the trip caused, for sure, some fatigue to the team for the upcoming match. The Tricolor will also be without two key players, Nino and André, both suspended for the third yellow card. In the last round of the Brasileirão, Flu won a hard-fought 1-0 win over Santos. This clash with Palmeiras has an even higher level of difficulty.

The Verdão seems to be back to its best after a negative cycle that slowed the team in the league. Midweek in a Brazilian Copa Libertadores clash, Palmeiras won 1-0 against Atlético-MG at the Mineirão, taking a big step towards qualification. It was their third straight win and second in Belo Horizonte after Palmeiras beat América-MG 4-1 in Round 17 of the Brasileirão. The Paulistas will enter the Maracanã willing to pick up the three points and show they are still the Champions. This is the type of game Abel Ferreira's team enjoys.

I think Palmeiras is more experienced, and in these big matches, that can make the difference. Both have the second leg of the Copa Libertadores to play a couple of days later, but Palmeiras also looks more relaxed for that one. In addition, the absences of Nino and André in the Flu team are a headache for Fernando Diniz. I'll bet on a Double Chance for Palmeiras with a goal limit.