In a crucial Copa Libertadores clash, Fluminense faces Cerro Porteno at the Maracana on Thursday.
Fluminense, the reigning champions, aim to secure their spot in the last 16 and top Group A with a victory. Currently, they hold eight points, three ahead of second-placed Cerro Porteno.
Team Form and Performance
Fluminense
Fluminense started the group stage slowly but has shown significant improvement, winning two of their last three matches after a 1-1 draw with Alianza Lima.
Under Fernando Diniz, Fluminense remains unbeaten in this year's competition, demonstrating a strong defensive record by conceding only two goals in four matches.
At home, Fluminense has a formidable record. They haven't lost in their last four group matches at the Maracana and have remained unbeaten against Paraguayan teams in Rio, with five wins and one draw.
Their last home defeat in the Libertadores group stage was in 2021.
Cerro Porteno
Cerro Porteno, led by Manolo Jimenez, has had a mixed performance in the group stage.
They managed a draw with Alianza Lima recently, placing them a point ahead of Colo-Colo for an automatic round of 16 spot.
However, Cerro Porteno struggles on the road, winless in their last ten away matches in the Libertadores group stage, with their last away win dating back to April 2021 against America de Cali.
Team News
Fluminense
Fluminense faces several injury concerns. Marlon, Gabriel Pires, Andre, and Renato Augusto are sidelined with knee issues.
Thiago Santos and Douglas Costa might also miss out due to thigh injuries, while Lele is recovering from an ACL injury, and Samuel Xavier has a sore foot.
Manoel, who scored the decisive goal against Colo-Colo, will be crucial for Fluminense.
Cerro Porteno
Cerro Porteno is also dealing with injuries, missing Bruno Valdez and Lucas Quintana due to cruciate ligament tears.
Federico Carrizo, who started in the last match, may continue in the lineup after scoring against Alianza Lima.
Predicted Lineups
Fluminense: Fabio; Marquinhos, Manoel, Melo, Marcelo; Lima, Martinelli; Terans, Ganso, Arias; Cano.
Cerro Porteno: Jean; Benitez, Baez, Brock, Arzamendia; Carrascal, Da Motta; Iturbe, Carrizo, Dominguez; Churin.
Prediction
Fluminense's strong home form and defensive solidity make them favourites. The intimidating atmosphere of the Maracana and their quality in transition play should see them secure a 2-0 victory over Cerro Porteno.
FAQ
Q: When and where is the Fluminense vs Cerro Porteno match taking place? A: The match will take place on Thursday, May 16, 2024, at the Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Q: What is at stake in this match for Fluminense? A: Fluminense can secure their place in the last 16 of the Copa Libertadores and clinch first place in Group A with a victory over Cerro Porteno.
Q: How has Fluminense performed in the Copa Libertadores group stage so far? A: Fluminense is unbeaten after four matches in the group stage, with two wins and two draws. They have conceded only two goals, showcasing a strong defensive performance.
Q: What is Cerro Porteno's current standing and performance in the group stage? A: Cerro Porteno is currently second in Group A, with five points. They have drawn two and won one of their group stage matches but have struggled on the road, winless in their last ten away group stage matches.
Q: What are the recent forms of both teams in all competitions? A: Fluminense has won two, drawn one, and lost one of their last four matches in all competitions. Cerro Porteno has two wins and two draws in their last four matches.
Q: Who are the key players unavailable for Fluminense due to injuries? A: Marlon, Gabriel Pires, Andre, Renato Augusto, Thiago Santos, and Douglas Costa are expected to miss the match due to injuries. Lele is recovering from an ACL injury, and Samuel Xavier is also doubtful due to a sore foot.
Q: Who are the key players unavailable for Cerro Porteno due to injuries? A: Bruno Valdez and Lucas Quintana are unavailable due to cruciate ligament tears. Federico Carrizo, who scored in the last match, may continue in the lineup.
