Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Brazilian Série A match.
Santos
Since late May, Santos have shown signs of progress in terms of performances and results. Under the guidance of Cléber Xavier, they have picked up 10 points from their last seven matches and found the net in five of those fixtures. The standout result was a narrow 1:0 victory over league leaders Flamengo, with Neymar da Silva Santos Júnior scoring the decisive goal. The squad also includes other notable players, such as Álvaro Barreal, who has scored four goals, and former Porto striker Tiquinho Soares.
Juventude
Juventude arrive in a turbulent state, having lost all seven of their away matches this season while conceding 24 goals and scoring just once. Their recent 0:3 loss to Bahia marked the end of the road for their previous head coach. The squad is now temporarily under the leadership of assistant coach José Gerson Ramos. Over the last ten rounds, Juventude have managed only one victory, and their depth has taken a further hit with the suspension of Jádson Alves.
Santos vs Juventude Prediction
Santos boast a more balanced and competitive squad and have held their own reasonably well as a newly promoted side. In contrast, Juventude are experiencing a dismal campaign. With Neymar da Silva Santos Júnior spearheading the attack, the hosts are well placed to end their four-match winless run.
