Cuiabá vs Juventude Prediction: It's a game between direct rivals

Cuiabá and Juventude are fighting to escape relegation and will meet in a postponed match from Round 16, using the international break. The home team won in the last round on the debut of coach Bernardo Franco and will be looking to win again to boost its confidence levels.

Cuiabá

The Golden Dorado broke a six-game winless streak in the Brasileirão by beating Criciúma 2-1 at home. The visitors opened the score in the 38th minute through Arthur Caíke, but Cuiabá turned the game around with goals from Clayson and Lucas Fernandes in the 57th and 67th minutes, respectively. The victory gives some hope back to the Matogrossenses, who occupy 19th place in the table with 21 points. They are six points from safety, so only a victory against Juventude matters. If Cuiabá wants to play in the elite division again next year, it must win these games against direct opponents. Pitta, the team's top scorer, is on international duty in Paraguay and won't be able to play.

Juventude

The Caxias do Sul club had a disappointing performance in the Gaúcho derby against Internacional. Juventude lost 3-1 at home in a game controlled by the visitors. The Ju played the second half with ten players after Rodrigo Sam received a red card in the 45th minute. The sending-off didn't help, but Inter was already leading 2-0 at half-time. Juventude has been losing steam and is approaching the danger zone. Jair Ventura's side is in 14th place with three points above Corinthians, the first team in the relegation places.

Expert Betting Tips

The game should be even, as the teams are of similar value, and so are their form. Juventude only won once on the road, but Cuiabá has also been struggling at the Arena Pantanal. Goalkeeper Valter and striker Isidro Pitta won't be playing and are two key players in the Mato Grosso do Sul team. I'm going for a draw, as it's a game that any team can win.