Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Brazilian Serie A match.
Bragantino find themselves in the middle of a deep crisis: a string of defeats has dragged them down to mid-table, while injuries have only added to the slump. Fluminense, meanwhile, have steadied the ship after their own wobble and are back pushing for a Copa Libertadores spot.
Red Bull Bragantino
Bragantino have lost seven on the spin and slipped to ninth place. Their attack has collapsed, averaging just 0.4 goals across the last five matches. Defensive problems are mounting too, with several centre-backs sidelined. Much of the burden has fallen on Isidro Pitta, who scored against Internacional (1:3) and remains their main threat, though his availability here is still in doubt.
Fluminense
Fluminense are unbeaten in three, climbing to eighth, though that followed a run of four straight defeats. Their latest outing was a 2:1 win over Fortaleza, with Germán Cano and Agustín Canobbio getting on the scoresheet — the pair remain the driving force up front, with little support elsewhere. Their weak spot is away form: just one win in their last seven on the road. Historically, though, Fluminense have the upper hand in this fixture.
Red Bull Bragantino vs Fluminense Prediction
The numbers point to a cagey affair. Bragantino usually find a way to take points at home, but their current form is dire. Fluminense are on a decent run but struggle badly away. Both sides have reasons to be cautious, which suggests limited chances.
