Sao Paulo will host Criciuma in a crucial Brasileiro Serie A clash at the Estadio do Morumbi on Wednesday.
The home side, Sao Paulo, is seeking to end their four-match winless streak. In contrast, Criciuma enters this match with two consecutive victories and hopes to extend their winning run.
Sao Paulo's Recent Form
Sao Paulo has struggled in recent games, notably suffering a 4-1 defeat against Vasco da Gama.
This marked their second consecutive loss following a 1-0 defeat to Cuiaba. Before these setbacks, Sao Paulo enjoyed a 13-game unbeaten run.
However, their recent form sees them with two losses and two draws from their last four matches.
With 15 points from 11 matches, they are currently ninth in the Serie A standings, three points above Criciuma.
Criciuma's Recent Form
Criciuma, on the other hand, has shown resilience with back-to-back victories against Botafogo and Atletico Goianiense.
This upturn in form follows a challenging period where they went six games without a win.
Criciuma's recent victories have lifted their spirits, and they will be eager to maintain their unbeaten run on the road, having lost only one of their four Serie A away games this season.
Team News
Sao Paulo
Sao Paulo will be without several key players. Rafael, Nahuel Ferraresi, James Rodriguez, and Damian Bobadilla are all on international duty at the Copa America.
Injuries also plague the team, with Rodrigo Nestor, Rafinha, Pablo Maia, and Joao Moreira all sidelined.
Possible Starting Lineup: Jandrei; Vinicius, Diego, Franco, Patryck; Gustavo, Galoppo, Nestor, Moura; Andre, Calleri
Criciuma
Criciuma will miss Wilker Angel, who is with the Venezuelan national team. Tobias Figueiredo is suspended, and Felipe Vizeu is out with a thigh injury.
Possible Starting Lineup: Gustavo; Jonathan, Fagundes, Figueiredo, Hermes; Barreto, Ronald, Mateus; Bolasie, Eder, Trauco
Prediction
Sao Paulo is under pressure to deliver a positive result and regain momentum. Despite their recent struggles, playing at home might provide the necessary boost.
Criciuma, buoyed by their recent form, will aim to secure at least a draw. We predict a competitive match ending in a 1-1 draw, reflecting the current form and determination of both teams.