Fábio’s homecoming adds a extra layer to a Serie A classic
Our Fluminense RJ vs Cruzeiro MG prediction is not fully reflected in the odds, as Fluminense RJ are not priced as they should be for this Thursday’s Serie A clash with Cruzeiro MG, who are too long at 2.90 with the draw at 3.10 in the match result market. The odds-on price for the hosts at 2.50 looks about right given this is a game that Fluminense should not lose and might edge, particularly with goalkeeping legend Fábio facing his former club.
It is still a surprise that his name is not mentioned more often when talking about great Brazilian footballers because he has played in over 600 Serie A matches. Fábio was a legend at Cruzeiro and his emotional reunion will add another layer of storyline to this storied rivalry between two of the biggest clubs. In this Fluminense RJ vs Cruzeiro MG preview, note that recent meetings have been very close affairs with the odd goal or moment of late drama deciding the outcome, so we cannot see this one being much different.
Fluminense’s recent form has been a mixed bag of results with some results that were not so good for a club of their quality.
Fluminense are the best organised side in the league
They have plenty of veteran experience in the line-up to grind out results like they have been doing at home in all competitions. Veteran attackers can unlock defenses.
Fluminense's head coach demands his side to play on the front foot when needed, but they can also control games through their midfield and always look organised with three central defenders when things get tough. Our Fluminense RJ vs Cruzeiro MG prediction is that their tactical flexibility might give them the slight edge in this contest.
Cruzeiro’s senior team form is not thoroughly detailed, but they have an identity built on pragmatism and not giving the opposition much to work with when they have the ball.
They are very compact in their defensive shape and effective on the counter-attack.
No Cruzeiro player is a superstar, but the club’s philosophy is a solid foundation and is perhaps never more evident than in their youth setup, as they are compact, organised and effective on the break.
Dour clash in store for Serie A giants
This will be a chess match between the most well-drilled side in the league and one that is incredibly compact and well-disciplined in their approach to every game.
Cruzeiro are historically known as a Serie A club that can frustrate opponents and are not always going to be the prettiest side on the pitch, but they can finish games on top, as long as they don’t shoot themselves in the foot. According to Fluminense RJ vs Cruzeiro MG betting tips, margins could be crucial in deciding the outcome.
So this could be a dour affair where the winner could be decided by fine margins, which is why we are taking Fluminense to win at 2.50. The Fluminense RJ vs Cruzeiro MG odds indicate this could be a low-scoring contest.
An alternative, which may suit some, is to go under 2.5 goals in the game.
