Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Brazilian Serie A match.
Two sides from the São Paulo metropolitan region face off in this 15th-round encounter in the Brazilian Serie A. Among them is Santos, the team where Neymar da Silva Santos Júnior rose to prominence.
Mirassol
While icons such as Edson Arantes do Nascimento and Neymar da Silva Santos Júnior never featured for Mirassol, the squad currently sits two positions above its upcoming opponents in the standings. They have been picking up points steadily but remain outside the top half of the standings. This is partly due to two postponed matches — against Botafogo and Fluminense — rescheduled around the FIFA Club World Cup. Recently promoted to the top division, Mirassol are not yet in the conversation for continental qualification.
Santos
Santos also earned promotion to the top flight for the 2024 season. After spending the opening seven rounds in the relegation zone, the squad has since embarked on their first successful run of the campaign, climbing to a season-best 13th position. A 3:2 away win over bottom-placed Fortaleza was expected, but a 1:0 triumph against current leaders Flamengo came as a major surprise. Neymar da Silva Santos Júnior finally found the net, scoring the decisive goal in the 84th minute on a clinical counterattack. It was his first goal in the Brasileirão since returning to his boyhood club.
Mirassol vs Santos Prediction
The victory over Flamengo could provide momentum for Santos, who will be eager to maintain their upward trajectory. The visitors clearly boast stronger resources: their squad is valued at nearly €80 million, compared to Mirassol's €20 million — the lowest in the division. Backing a double chance on Santos looks a reliable option.
