Rio de Janeiro is buzzing as Fluminense prepares to face Juventude in a crucial Brasileirão match at the iconic Maracanã stadium. The game, scheduled for Thursday at 21:30 (Brasília time), marks the 28th round of the championship and holds significant importance for both teams.
Fluminense's Ambitions
Fluminense, currently sitting in 7th place with 38 points, aims to secure a spot in the coveted G6. Under the guidance of coach Luis Zubeldía, the team has shown impressive form at home, winning both matches played on their own turf. However, they will be without key players Keno and Lucho Acosta for this encounter. Acosta is being rested due to fatigue, while Keno recovers from an ankle injury sustained in a previous match.
Despite these absences, Zubeldía has included fresh faces in the squad. Midfielder Lezcano and forward Riquelme could potentially make their debuts under the new coach, adding an element of surprise to Fluminense's attack. Serna, recently back from international duty with Colombia, is also available, though likely to start on the bench.
Juventude's Fight for Survival
For Juventude, the situation is far more precarious. The team is battling against relegation, currently languishing in the penultimate position with only 23 points. They desperately need a positive result to climb out of the relegation zone, trailing Santos, the first team outside the drop zone, by eight points. The challenge is significant, but Juventude will be determined to put up a fight.
Predicted Lineups
Fluminense: Fábio; Samuel Xavier, Thiago Silva, Freytes e Renê; Martinelli, Hércules e Lima; Canobbio, Serna e Cano. Coach: Luis Zubeldía.
Juventude: Jandrei; Igor Formiga, Abner, Marcos Paulo...
The stage is set for a thrilling encounter between a Fluminense side looking to solidify their position in the top half of the table and a Juventude team desperately fighting for their survival in the Brasileirão.