Fortaleza will host Juventude at the Estadio Governador Placido Aderaldo Castelo on Sunday evening, aiming to extend their unbeaten home streak in the Brasileiro Serie A.
Both teams are vying for crucial points to improve their standings, with Fortaleza eyeing a move into the top seven and Juventude aiming to maintain their momentum.
Fortaleza's Recent Form
Fortaleza started the 2024 season on a strong note, remaining unbeaten in their first six matches with two victories and four draws.
However, they faced back-to-back defeats against Bahia and Cuiaba before recovering with a 1-0 win over Gremio.
Their latest matches include a 1-1 draw with Atletico Mineiro and an impressive 3-0 victory over Palmeiras, thanks to Juan Lucero's brace and Bruno Pacheco's late goal.
Juventude's Recent Form
Juventude, newly promoted to the top flight, have had a commendable start, currently sitting on 16 points after 11 games.
They secured a dramatic 2-1 victory against league leaders Flamengo in their most recent match, with goals from Lucas Barbosa and Mandaca.
Despite their strong home performances, Juventude's away form has been lacking, with no wins and only two points from five matches on the road.
Team News
Fortaleza
Fortaleza will be without Kervin Andrade and Benjamin Kuscevic, who are on international duty for the Copa America.
Additionally, midfielders Matheus Rossetto, Moises, and Marinho are sidelined with muscular injuries, and right-back Dudu is doubtful due to a knee issue.
Possible Starting Lineup: Ricardo; Tinga, Britez, Cardona, Pacheco; Welison, Augusto, Hercules; Machuca, Lucero, Pikachu
Juventude
Juventude will welcome back Ze Marcos and Gabriel, who missed the last match due to yellow card accumulation.
However, they still have several injuries, including long-term absentee Romercio, Kleiton, Edson Carioca, and Marcelinho.
Possible Starting Lineup: Gabriel; Lucas, Boza, Marcos, Ruschel; Caique, Jadson, Ewerton, Nene; Farias, Gilberto
Prediction
Given their respective forms and home advantage, Fortaleza are expected to edge out a narrow victory.
They have maintained an unbeaten home record this season and have recently kept three consecutive clean sheets at the Estadio Governador Placido Aderaldo Castelo.
On the other hand, Juventude's struggles away from home could continue.
Fortaleza 
Juventude 
