Campeonato Brasileiro leaders Palmeiras look to maintain their performance run of ten straight wins when they visit local rivals, Sao Paulo. The match schedules for Saturday at Morumbi, with kickoff at 1 am.
The hosts come off the back of a disappointing 5-1 loss at the hands of Flamengo. On the other hand, the visitors continue their impressive form following a 1-0 win over Fluminense.
Manager Hernan Crespo faces immense pressure after a poor start since taking his managerial role at Sao Paulo. Moreover, the camp finds itself battling the relegation zone. In addition, the camp continues its search for the first victory after nine matches.
However, the pressure eased after a 2-0 win over Vasco da Gama in the Copa do Brasil. The win gives them a healthy lead heading into the second leg next week.
In addition, the camp joins their rivals Palmeiras in the last eight of the Copa Libertadores. The side registered a 2-0 win over Racing Club in the second leg of their last 16 with a 4-2 aggregate win.
On the other hand, the visitors recently started sealing a fourth consecutive appearance in the Copa Libertadores quarter-finals. Their last win over Fluminense puts them three points adrift of their closest challengers Atletico Mineiro. It has been an impressive month, with the side picking maximum points with Chile’s Universidad Catolica.
Sao Paulo vs Palmeiras Head to Head
Both sides have 54 games against each other, with hosts taking 18 wins while Palmeiras also 18 wins. Here is a look at their previous encounters:
Home
- Sao Paulo 2-0 Vasco da Gama
- Flamengon 5-1 Sao Paulo
- Racing Club 1-3 Sao Paulo
- Sao Paulo 0-1 Forteleza
- Sao Paulo 1-1 Racing Club
Away
- Palmeiras 1-0 Fluminense
- Palmeiras 1-0 Universidad Catolica
- Atletico Goianiense 0-3 Palmeiras
- Universidad Catolica 0-1 Palmeiras
- Palmeiras 3-2 Santos
Sao Paulo Team News
A major blow for the hosts is the thigh injury picked up by forward Eder. Other unavailable faces for the clash include Luciano and Wallace. In addition, experienced right-back Dani Alves is at the Japan Olympics.
Palmeiras Team News
Left-back Matias Vina recently left the club to join AS Roma in the ongoing summer window. Therefore, we expect Renan to cover the left flank. However, the arrival of Jorge from Monaco puts more cover in defence.
Prediction and Odds
Even though the hosts made improvements in their last two encounters, we expect the visitors to prove their dominance.
- Palmeiras Win
- Goals Under 2.5
- No Score: Home
