Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Brazilian Série A match.
On Saturday local time, one of Brazil’s most iconic derbies — the Clássico Majestoso — sees São Paulo face off against Corinthians Paulista. However, at present, Sociedade Esportiva Palmeiras remain the top side in São Paulo state.
São Paulo
Roughly a third of the way into the league season, São Paulo sit just one point clear of the relegation zone. A draw in the previous round helped them avoid slipping into the bottom four — the team earned a 2:2 result away against high-flying Red Bull Bragantino, a much-needed boost after four consecutive defeats. The task of lifting the squad out of danger now falls once more to Hernán Crespo, who has returned for a second stint in charge.
Corinthians Paulista
Corinthians Paulista remain within the Copa Sudamericana qualifying places, which has reduced immediate pressure for another coaching change. Their most recent managerial switch came in April, when Ramón Ángel Díaz was replaced by Dorival Júnior, formerly of the Brazil national team. Since then, Corinthians have averaged 1.69 points per match across all competitions. However, that statistic has dropped to just 1.2 over the last five rounds of the Campeonato Brasileiro Série A.
São Paulo vs Corinthians Paulista Prediction
Despite their struggles, São Paulo have continued to pose a threat in attack, averaging 1.2 goals per game over their last five outings in all competitions. In contrast, Corinthians Paulista have faltered in front of goal, scoring only 0.6 goals per match in the same period and failing to score in two of those games. Earlier this season, São Paulo claimed a 3:1 win at Morumbi in this fixture. We expect the hosts to find the net again.
