Sao Paulo is set to face Cuiaba in a crucial Brasileiro clash at the Estadio Cicero Pompeu de Toledo. As the teams enter gameweek 10, Sao Paulo sits nine places ahead of Cuiaba in the league standings.
Despite Sao Paulo’s recent struggles to secure a win in their last two matches, they remain the favourites in this encounter.
Current Form
Sao Paulo
Sao Paulo has displayed a mix of resilience and inconsistency.
Although they are undefeated in their last seven league matches, they have drawn their previous two games against Internacional and Corinthians.
This has slowed their momentum, leaving them four points behind the league leaders, Botafogo.
A win against Cuiaba could propel them into joint second place, depending on other results.
Recent Matches
Sao Paulo 0-0 Internacional
Corinthians 2-2 Sao Paulo
Sao Paulo 3-1 Coritiba
Cuiaba
Cuiaba has shown significant improvement under their new manager, Petit.
After a challenging start to the season, they have netted 11 goals in their last three matches, including a 5-0 thrashing of Fortaleza and a 5-2 victory over Criciuma.
This newfound attacking prowess makes them a formidable opponent for Sao Paulo.
Recent Matches
Cuiaba 5-0 Fortaleza
Cuiaba 5-2 Criciuma
Cuiaba 0-2 Botafogo
Team News
Sao Paulo
Sao Paulo will be missing several key players due to international duties and injuries.
Rafael, Nahuel Ferraresi, and James Rodriguez are all away with their national teams. Pablo Maia and Rafinha are also sidelined due to injuries.
Possible Starting Lineup
Jandrei; Vinicius, Arboleda, Costa, Welington; Gustavo, Alisson; Moura, Luciano, Nestor; Calleri
Cuiaba
Cuiaba will have to cope without Gabriel Knesowitsch, who is doubtful due to illness, and Derik Lacerda, who is recovering from a knee injury.
Lucas Fernandes is expected to replace Denilson in midfield after the latter’s injury in their last match.
Possible Starting Lineup
Walter; Alexandre, Alves, Empereur, Ramon; Mineiro, Fernandes; Cafu, Max, Clayson; Pitta
Prediction
Given the current form of both teams, this match promises to be a closely contested affair.
Sao Paulo's solid defence will be tested by Cuiaba's newfound attacking strength.
Historically, matches between these two sides have often ended in draws, and a similar outcome might be on the cards again this time.
Our Prediction: Sao Paulo 1-1 Cuiaba
São Paulo 
Cuiabá EC 
