Vasco da Gama vs Athletico-PR Prediction: A three-round fight

In the next two weeks, Vasco da Gama and Athletico Paranaense will meet three times, twice for the Copa do Brasil and this time for the Brasileirão. The league game is the least important, as both teams are currently in mid-table positions. This Round 24 fixture will serve as a test for the cup quarter-finals, which start in the middle of next week.

The Giant drew 2-2 away to Criciúma in a competitive game. Yannick Bolasie opened the scoring after 6 minutes, and it looked like it would be a walk in the park for Criciúma. However, in the 36th minute, David scored a fabulous goal with a powerful shot into the top corner to level the score. Close to half-time, Vasco made it 2-1 through Rayan, leaving the home fans stunned. Criciúma tried to equalize in the second half, and the goal came when no one expected it. Bolasie scored again in the fourth minute of added time to make it 2-2. The result was positive for the Cariocas, but the late goal conceded was disappointing. The Cruzmaltino is in ninth place and will be looking to beat Athletico-PR to continue its good season. 

The Hurricane qualified for the Copa Sudamericana quarter-finals after a great 2-0 win against Belgrano. The Paranaenses had won 2-1 at home and needed a draw in Argentina. However, things got complicated early on for Athletico after a red card for Esquível in the 21st minute. Varini's men defended well, and in the 54th minute, Mastriani took advantage of a mistake by the central defender to open the scoring. The goal unnerved the Argentinians and gave Athletico confidence, which sealed the tie in the 89th minute through Di Yorio in a good team move. The Curitiba side has two consecutive games against Vasco separated for three days, but Martín Varini will probably give some players a rest in the league match.

Vasco is in 10th place with 28 points, while Athletico is one position above with 29 points and one game in hand. The Cariocas could overtake their opponent if they win, which would be a psychological advantage for the Copa do Brasil clashes. Next week, the two teams will face again in the cup to qualify for the semi-finals. Vasco da Gama hasn't lost at home in seven games, so I'm betting on a Double Chance in favor of the Cariocas with a maximum of three goals scored in the match.