Fluminense and Sampaio Correa are set to clash in an intense Copa do Brasil third-round match at the iconic Maracana stadium.
With Fluminense holding a strong lead from the first leg, the pressure is on Sampaio Correa to mount a significant comeback. Here's an in-depth look at the teams, their form, news, and a prediction for the upcoming match.
Team Form and Recent Performance
Fluminense
Fluminense, the reigning Copa Libertadores champions, are in excellent form heading into this match.
They secured a 2-0 victory in the first leg against Sampaio Correa, setting a solid foundation for the second leg. Fernando Diniz's squad has been impressive, remaining unbeaten in their last five matches across all competitions at the Maracana, where they have consistently scored multiple goals.
Historically, Fluminense has been dominant in the Copa do Brasil's third round, winning five consecutive matches at this stage without conceding a goal.
Their last second-leg defeat in this round came in 2021. Since a loss to Botafogo in early March, they have not been beaten when leading or drawing at halftime in any competition.
Sampaio Correa
Sampaio Correa faces a daunting task against a team two tiers above them in the Brazilian league system.
Their form has been less than stellar, with the team failing to score in their last three competitive matches away from home. This month, they managed only a goalless draw against CSA in Serie C.
Despite advancing past the first round of the Copa do Brasil due to a higher ranking after a 1-1 draw with Humaita, Sampaio Correa's overall performance has been lackluster.
Their last victory by a substantial margin was rare this year, and they have struggled to find the net consistently.
Team News and Possible Lineups
Fluminense
Several key players might be absent for Fluminense due to injuries.
Marlon and Andre are dealing with knee issues, Lele is out with an ACL injury, and both Thiago Santos and Douglas Costa are recovering from thigh injuries.
Samuel Xavier is also expected to miss the match due to a sore foot. Likely starters include Fabio, Guga, Andrade, and Arias, among others.
Sampaio Correa
Sampaio Correa might field a similar lineup to their previous matches, with key players like goalkeeper Felipe, who has had a mixed performance in the Copa do Brasil so far.
Expected starters include Rafael, Fabio Aguiar, Ferreira, and Pimentinha.
Prediction
Given Fluminense's strong home form and the intimidating atmosphere of the Maracana, it is highly likely they will secure a comfortable victory.
Our prediction is a 4-0 win for Fluminense, advancing 6-0 on aggregate.
Fluminense 
Sampaio Corrêa 
