São Paulo vs Flamengo Prediction: Expect a balanced game

It's the big game in Round 21 of the Brasileirão. Flamengo will defend its lead at the Morumbi, a stadium always tricky for visitors. São Paulo must win to keep alive the hope of reaching the top. The match is a classic of Brazilian football between two of the only three teams never to have been relegated to the Série B.

São Paulo defeated Goiás at home by 2-0 in the first leg of the Copa do Brasil Round of 16. In the league, the Tricolor Paulista has not won for three matches. São Paulo lost in Fortaleza and drew with Juventude and Botafogo. The Paulistas are in sixth place with 32 points, eight points behind the leader Flamengo. Zubeldía’s team is in a Copa Libertadores position but only the top four will go directly to the group stage. São Paulo is strong at home, registering 6 wins, 2 draws, and 2 losses.

The Mengão took a big step towards qualifying for the Copa do Brasil quarter-finals by beating Palmeiras 2-0 at home. This victory was significant, and Tite's men will go to São Paulo confident. Flamengo won for the fourth consecutive time after three victories in the Série A before the cup game. The Cariocas lead the way with 40 points and one game in hand. Botafogo has the same points but has a lower goal difference than its rival and has played 20 games. Flamengo has the best record on the road in the league, with five wins, three draws, and one defeat against Juventude. A draw at the Morumbi would be a good result for the Scarlet-Black.

The balance should prevail in this game between two quality teams. Flamengo has more talented players, but São Paulo, playing at home, will balance the forces. The Paulistas are not easy to beat at home, but Flamengo, on the other hand, is the best team in the league away from home. Any side can win, so a draw seems an appropriate bet.