Internacional vs Atlético-MG Prediction: The Rooster wants to crow in Porto Alegre

Two big clubs will meet at the Beira-Rio for another Brasileirão match. These are two Copa Libertadores-level teams; Atlético Mineiro was already eliminated in the Round of 16, while Internacional is still in the semi-finals. What I wrote in my preview of the match between Cuiabá and Fluminense is partially valid for this match. The second leg of the Copa Libertadores semi-final between Internacional and Fluminense is the top priority for both clubs. Eduardo Coudet, Inter's coach, should rest some of the players who played in the first leg, as Fernando Diniz, the Cariocas' coach, will probably do at the Arena Pantanal. There's no other way, as everyone wants to be at full strength to compete for a place in the final at the Maracanã on November 4. Who could take advantage of this are the Mineiros, who are going to Porto Alegre to pick up points.

The Colorado continues to make a modest league and suffered another defeat in the last round. Inter lost 2-1 away to Athletico Paranaense and now finds itself in 14th place, just four points above the relegation zone. There is some risk in the way Coudet is managing Internacional's season. While success in the Copa Libertadores is notable, the position in the Série A is dangerous. Whatever the Copa Libertadores outcome, the Gaúchos will have the month of October without any international matches so that they can devote themselves exclusively to the Brasileirão. The team obviously wants to get a good result against Atlético-MG, but it won't be easy.

The Rooster beat Cuiabá 1-0 at home in its last game and is still in ninth place but has gained points on Flamengo, Palmeiras, and Botafogo. The team aims to qualify for the Copa Libertadores and must finish at least sixth to play in the qualifying round. Scolari's team has been in top form and, in its last four matches, has won three and drawn one, with a 5-1 goal difference. The Mineiros need points to move up the table, and that's what they'll aim at the Beira-Rio.

Despite playing away, Atlético seems to be in a better position to win the tie. Internacional won't be playing with its best team with the Copa Libertadores in mind. On the other hand, the Rooster is confident and has conceded few goals, so I'm betting on a Double Chance in favor of Atlético Mineiro, with a maximum of two goals scored.