Get ready for a thrilling Copa do Brasil showdown as Juventude welcomes Fluminense to Estadio Alfredo Jaconi for the first leg of their round-of-16 tie. The stage is set for a captivating battle between two teams on contrasting runs of form.
A Look at Juventude's Struggles
The hosts are facing a tough time, winless in their last five matches. Their Brazilian Cup campaign started with a lacklustre goalless draw against Iguatu, securing progression only thanks to the away goals rule.
Despite a strong showing against Paysandu in the next round, where Gilberto's brace and Lucas Barbosa's strike secured victory, Juventude's recent form has been concerning. They managed only a 2-1 win over Internacional in their first two-legged cup encounter, followed by a 1-1 draw in the second leg to secure a 3-2 aggregate triumph.
Since then, Juventude have struggled in the Brasileiro, securing just two points from four matches. Their current position, 13th in the table, places them just three points above the relegation zone. They will be desperate to turn things around and gain a crucial advantage heading into the second leg against Fluminense.
Fluminense's Resurgence
Fluminense, on the other hand, are riding a wave of positivity after a recent resurgence. Having skipped the opening rounds of the Copa do Brasil due to their impressive league finish last season, they've made a strong statement in their cup campaign.
They demolished Sampaio Correa in the first leg, securing a comfortable 2-0 victory thanks to strikes from David Terans and Jhon Arias. The second leg was equally dominant, with a 4-0 victory fueled by goals from Arias and John Kennedy.
Although they faced a rough patch after their cup victory, losing seven of their next ten matches, Fluminense have shown resilience. Their current form is a testament to their newfound confidence, having secured three consecutive wins without conceding a single goal.
Team News and Potential Lineups
For Fluminense, young prodigy Kaua Elias has been a standout performer, scoring in three of his last four matches. Thiago Silva, a recent arrival from Chelsea, has been instrumental in their recent defensive solidity, securing three clean sheets. However, the veteran defender might be given a rest for this match.
Felipe Melo and Marcelo are expected to miss out due to injuries, but Melo's return is imminent. Juventude will be without defender Ze Marcos, serving a one-game suspension after receiving a red card in their defeat to Cruzeiro. Joao Lucas is also a doubt after suffering an injury in the same match.
Predicted Outcome
Despite Juventude's home advantage, Fluminense's recent form suggests they are the favourites to secure a crucial victory in the first leg. While their attacking prowess has been somewhat subdued, their defensive solidity and recent winning streak bode well for their chances.
Sports Mole predicts a 0-1 victory for Fluminense, setting them up for a commanding lead going into the second leg.
Stay tuned for an exciting Copa do Brasil encounter and don't miss the second leg as these two teams battle for a place in the quarter-finals.