Fluminense vs São Paulo Prediction: The Cariocas face a tricky opponent

Fluminense moved out of the relegation zone after an away win against Atlético Mineiro but still needs points. Its next opponent is São Paulo, in fifth place in the table and having a good season. The Cariocas must play at their best to defeat a solid team.

The Tricolor das Laranjeiras beat Atlético-MG 2-0 in Belo Horizonte and showed how much the team has improved in organization and confidence since coach Mano Menezes arrived at the club. The signing of veteran Thiago Silva was decisive in improving the squad, which now has a leader on the pitch. Fluminense was always superior at the Arena MRV, playing with a great personality. The two clubs will meet again in the Copa Libertadores quarter-finals. The Cariocas are now in 16th place but must keep picking up points as the situation is still precarious.

The Paulistas suffered an unexpected defeat at home to Atlético Mineiro in the first leg of the Copa do Brasil quarter-finals. Zubeldía's men missed some chances to score and conceded a goal in stoppage time from a set-piece. It won't be easy to beat the Rooster away from home, but the priority is the Brasileirão, for the moment. São Paulo's ambition is to finish the league in the top four places to qualify directly for the Copa Libertadores, so it must seek victories in every match. Fluminense is motivated, but São Paulo wants to bring home points.

The Fluminense fans look forward to the game and will support their team in a crucial match. The Fluzão is only two points ahead of Vitória, the first team in the relegation zone, so it must win. São Paulo has been struggling on the road, where it hasn't won in six games across all competitions. The game will probably be balanced and very tactical, so whoever scores first has a good chance of winning. Fluminense is the slight favorite, but I will bet on a draw.