Internacional vs Juventude Prediction: Two rivals meet in a Gaúcho classic

This Rio Grande do Sul classic is a postponed Round 6 match. Surprisingly, the small club Juventude is higher in the table than the historic Internacional, who won 2 Copa Libertadores and a FIFA Club World Cup in 2006 against FC Barcelona. The classic, most known as Juvenal, is crucial for Internacional, who hasn't won a game since June.

The Colorado is still very close to the relegation zone, in 15th place, although it has five games in hand, one of which is against Juventude. In the last round, Inter drew 2-2 at home to Athletico Paranaense. The Gaúchos got off to a good start with a goal from Wesley in the 12th minute, but the visitors turned the game around with goals in the 39th and 50th minutes from João Cruz and Canobbio, respectively. In the 96th minute, just as some fans were leaving the Beira-Rio stadium, Wanderson equalized the game to give Inter a point. Internacional hasn't won in 12 games, and the situation is alarming. Coach Roger Machado replaced Eduardo Coudet at the helm five games ago but has yet to win.

The Ju defeated Botafogo 3-2 at home in an excellent game. Juventude led 3-0, taking advantage of the Cariocas' inertia. Botafogo reacted late and reduced the deficit with goals in the 69th and 81st minutes, but the home team defended well in the final minutes. The Caxias do Sul side is in 12th place with 25 points and two games in hand. Juventude has three more points than rival Internacional and will be looking for at least a draw at the Beira-Rio.

The two rivals have met five times this year, with one victory for each side and three draws. However, Juventude eliminated Internacional in the Campeonato Gaúcho on penalties, and in the Copa do Brasil was also the better team in both legs. Confidence is high among Juventude after the victory over the Série A leader Botafogo, while Inter hasn't won in 12 games. Juventude is in a better moment, but I expect a balanced game. I'm leaning toward a draw.