Vasco da Gama vs Flamengo Prediction: The Maracanã is the stage for the Derby of Millions

Round 7 of the Brasileirão features the derby, or classic as Brazilians prefer, between Vasco da Gama and Flamengo. The two clubs from Rio do Janeiro have massive fanbases, so this game is known as the Classic of Millions. As usual, the Maracanã hosts the Marvelous City's big games. Flamengo has won its last four matches and is the favorite to win the Carioca clash.

The Giant finally has a new manager. Portuguese Álvaro Pacheco was signed to replace Ramón Díaz, who left a month ago. The club had an interim coach while Pacheco finished his work in Portugal with Vitória de Guimarães. Vasco's new boss will have a demanding debut, facing rival Flamengo at the Maracanã. The Cruzmaltino eliminated Fortaleza in the Copa do Brasil via penalty shootout and is confident for the classic. In 13th place with six points, a draw is a result that can satisfy Vasco da Gama and Pacheco.

With more problems than expected, the Vulture qualified for the Copa Libertadores knockout stage by beating Millonarios 3-0. Tite's team finished second behind Bolívar and three points ahead of Palestino, who lost in the final round. In the Brasileirão, Flamengo is in third place, two points behind leaders Athletico Paranaense and Bahia. The Scarlet-Black seems to have rediscovered itself after a poor period. Four straight wins without conceding a goal have calmed the demanding fans, but a defeat against rival Vasco could put the pressure back on the team.

Flamengo has the better players, but Vasco will put up a good fight. New coach Álvaro Pacheco will put together a strategy to neutralize the rival's attack, and it's up to Tite to disassemble it with the creativity of his players. The Maracanã is Flamengo's usual home ground, but this time, the stands will be full of Vasco da Gama fans, the host team. The Cruzmaltino hasn't won any of the five previous meetings between the two sides. I'm betting on a Double Chance in favor of Flamengo with a maximum of three goals scored.