Vasco da Gama vs Atlético-MG Prediction: Vasco hopes to pick up some more points

Vasco da Gama will finally be able to play at home in front of their fans again after the end of the public ban. After some controversy, the fixture will take place at the sold-out Maracanã. The Hill's Giant has picked up four precious points in the last two rounds and secured the signing of Dimitri Payet, which caused great euphoria among the Vasco fans. The Cariocas remain in penultimate place but are now five points clear of the relegation zone. This clash against Atlético Mineiro won't be easy as Scolari's team is improving, especially defensively. The Rooster has managed to keep three clean sheets in the last three matches, with two wins in the league and a draw in the Copa Libertadores.

Vasco da Gama

It's been a good week for Vasco's loyal fans. They finally could buy tickets to see their club play after two months, saw Vasco pick up a point at RB Bragantino, and celebrated the signing of 36-year-old French international Payet. All that remains to complete the week is a win against Atlético Mineiro, and with a packed Maracanã, anything can happen. Ramón Díaz's team showed competence against Grêmio and Bragantino and seemed to believe more in its own worth. In the first round of the Brasileirão, Vasco won surprisingly 2-1 at the Mineirão, the Cruzmaltino's only away victory.

Atlético-MG

The Galo is right in the middle of the table, in tenth place, and wants to reach a position allowing the team to return to the Copa Libertadores next year. The top six teams qualify for the most important South American competition. After an endless winless streak, Atlético has managed to break free and is now a confident and determined team. In the last round, Atlético Mineiro beat Bahia 1-0 at home, with Paulinho scoring the winning goal. Away from home, Atlético-MG is the third-best team with four wins, three draws, and three defeats. A defeat against Vasco would be a setback for the Rooster's recovery.

Expert Betting Tips

I'm leaning more toward a Vasco da Gama win because of the positive effect a Maracanã full of cheering fans will have on the team. The last time Vasco had fans in the stands at their stadium, the game ended with unfortunate scenes. This return to normality will be good for the club and the fans. I'm betting on a Double Chance favoring Vasco with a wide goal limit. This bet also includes a draw, perhaps the most likely outcome given Atlético's improvement.