São Paulo and Flamengo face off in the Copa de Brasil final this Sunday. Both teams need a win to break from their slumps.
The stakes are high; the winner earns a spot in the Copa Libertadores. São Paulo has a slight edge, having won the first leg 1-0.
So far, São Paulo is underperforming in the league. They haven’t won a game since defeating Santos 4-1 on July 15.
After that, they saw five losses and three draws. In contrast, Flamengo holds the seventh spot in the league but isn’t faring well either.
James Rodriguez scored São Paulo’s most recent goal but will likely sit out the final. Other players such as Gabriel Neves and Alexandre Pato will also step aside.
Regulars like Robert Arboleda and Calleri are expected to start. Flamengo has its share of internal issues, affecting their performance and causing a drop in league standings.
Jorge Sampaoli, Flamengo’s coach, is under pressure. He plans to field Giorgian De Arrascaeta.
Goalkeeper Matheus Cunha competes for a starting spot with Agustín Rossi. Team adjustments are expected with Wesley replacing Matheuzinho.
Probable Line-ups:
São Paulo: Rafael; Rafinha, Arboleda, Beraldo, Paulista; Maia, Alisson, Nestor, Rato; Moura, Calleri.
Coach: Dorival Júnior.
Flamengo: Rossi or Cunha; Wesley, Bruno, Pereira, Lucas; Pulgar, Hugo, Gerson, Arrascaeta or Gabigol; Henrique, Pedro.
Coach: Sampaoli.
Referee: Bráulio Machado, with Bruno Pires and Boschilia assisting. VAR: Wagner Reway.
Venue: Morumbi, São Paulo.
Time: 4:00 PM local, 7:00 PM GMT.
Both teams aim to break their negative streaks with a decisive win. The game promises excitement and high stakes, setting the stage for an intriguing showdown.
São Paulo and Flamengo will clash in this crucial Copa de Brasil final.