São Paulo vs Fortaleza Prediction: Fortaleza can take the points home

In this upcoming Brasileirão match, neither team is a clear favorite. Historically, São Paulo is superior to Fortaleza, but this season, things look different. The Cearenses are in 8th place with 35 points, while the Paulistas sit in 13th place with 28 points, with a match in hand. A few days away from the second leg of the Copa do Brasil final, the home team will probably manage the effort in this league match, which is definitely secondary for São Paulo. Fortaleza has an opportunity to get at least a draw.

São Paulo

After a 1-0 win at the Maracanã in the first leg of the Copa do Brasil final, the Tricolor Paulista is now the favorite to lift the trophy. However, Flamengo can win on a good day on any ground, and Dorival Jr., São Paulo's coach, is well aware of this, having won last year's Copa Libertadores with the Carioca club. Some players will likely rest against Fortaleza to be in top condition for the final. In the Série A, the Paulistas haven't won for seven games, giving the clear idea that the championship, at the moment, isn't the priority.

Fortaleza

The Leão do Pici continues to have a good season and is encouraged by the victory over Corinthians in the last round. Fortaleza is only four points off the top four, so hopes of qualifying for the Copa Libertadores are still there. The Copa Sudamericana is another goal for the Ceará team this season. The final obstacle is Corinthians, a team they will face again after this match against São Paulo. The dream of winning a South American competition is still very much alive, so confidence is high among Pablo Vojvoda's players. Fortaleza will head to the Morumbi to pick up points.

Expert Betting Tips

I'm leaning towards a surprise in this game. The Copa do Brasil final is a few days away, and São Paulo is unlikely to play at full intensity. Fortaleza's team has quality and a competent coach who will, for sure, try to exploit a likely São Paulo team without some of its best players. I will go for a Double Chance on Fortaleza with a score of less than 4.5 goals.