Fluminense will aim to build on their recent victory in the Copa Betano do Brazil when they host Gremio at the Estádio do Maracanã in Rio de Janeiro on Sunday. With both sides recently snapping five-game winless streaks, this fixture offers a chance to build renewed momentum. It’s a crucial clash for two teams looking to reassert themselves in the league.

Fluminense’s Recent Form

Fluminense secured a much-needed 2-1 victory over Internacional in midweek, ending a five-game losing run across all competitions. That poor run began after their 2-0 semi-final defeat to Chelsea in the FIFA Club World Cup. Their latest cup win provides hope for a turnaround.

In the league, however, their form remains shaky. They were outclassed in a 3-1 defeat to São Paulo last time out. They’ve also lost their last two home matches in the league by an aggregate scoreline of 4-1.

Nonetheless, they’ll look to use home advantage at the Maracanã to turn the tide. With four wins in seven league games at home, they still pose a strong threat. A return to winning ways in the league is now their primary focus.

Gremio’s Recent Form

Like their hosts, Gremio also ended their five-match winless run in all competitions with a 2-1 win over Fortaleza. The visitors scored twice within the opening 20 minutes, both from the penalty spot via Martin Braithwaite. They held on for the win despite conceding before halftime.

However, Gremio’s away form remains problematic. They have just one win in their last 12 away matches across all competitions. During that stretch, they’ve suffered seven defeats and drawn four.

That poor run on the road puts them at a disadvantage coming into this game. Traveling has been a major weakness this season. Their defense, in particular, has struggled under pressure away from home.

Who Will Win The Match Between Fluminense and Gremio?

We expect Fluminense to win this contest. Despite recent setbacks, they’ve been more reliable at home with four wins, one draw, and two losses in seven league games. Gremio’s away struggles,with five defeats in seven league trips further bolster Fluminense’s chances of securing all three points.

Will Both Teams Score?

Yes. Neither side has kept a clean sheet in their last six matches. Both teams have scored in five of their last six head-to-head meetings, a trend likely to continue, especially given their recent defensive inconsistencies and aggressive attacking styles.

How Many Goals Can Be Expected?

We anticipate over 2.5 goals. The last six encounters between these two sides have averaged 3.1 goals per game. With both teams showing attacking promise but defensive flaws, a high-scoring affair is likely, particularly with recent form favouring end-to-end, open football.

Fluminense vs Gremio Prediction

Fluminense return to league action buoyed by their 2-1 win over Internacional, which ended a worrying five-match losing streak. They’ll hope to leverage their decent home form which includes four wins in seven league matches at the Maracanã, to get their domestic campaign back on track. Despite recent defensive lapses, they have shown attacking intent, which should serve them well.

Gremio’s 2-1 win over Fortaleza offers a short-term morale boost. But their chronic away issues continue to be a red flag. With only one win in their last 12 away games, Gremio face an uphill battle here.

Expect a high-scoring affair with both teams finding the net. Fluminense’s home edge should see them through. A 2-1 scoreline in favour of the hosts seems likely.

New York City and Club Leon will face off on Friday night at Red Bull Arena in a Leagues Cup group stage matchup. New York City FC are in the same group as other Mexican sides, Toluca and Puebla. The MLS side was lucky to make the Round of 32 last season after defeating Queretaro on penalties and losing to Cincinnati. They went on to beat New England before losing 2-1 to Tigres UANL in the Round of 16. They’ll hope for better luck this season.

Club Leon, meanwhile, will start their Liga MX group stage assignments with a game against MLS side Montreal before facing New York City. They also have a date with Columbus Crew on August 5th as they look to defeat the odds and make it to the Round of 32. Last year, the Mexicans didn’t make it past the group stage after losing to Portland and Colorado. Their recent record against MLS sides should worry Eduardo Berizzo.