Juventude vs Fluminense Prediction: It's a vital game for both clubs

Half of the teams in the Brasileirão are in danger of falling into the Série B, and Juventude and Fluminense are among them. The home side is in 13th with 29 points, while Fluzão occupies the 16th place with 27 points, two above the relegation zone.

The Papo lost dramatically 3-1 to Corinthians in the Copa do Brasil and failed to qualify for the semi-finals, which would have been incredible for the Caxias do Sul club. Juventude won 2-1 in the first leg and, at the Neo Química Arena, was losing by the same score, but Corinthians got the third goal seconds before the game went to penalties. The result could affect the Gaúchos' confidence, at least in the short term. The players may also feel some fatigue in the upcoming match, so it won't be easy to beat Fluminense, a team enjoying a positive momentum.

The Tricolor das Laranjeiras beat São Paulo 2-0 before the international break and had plenty of time to prepare for the meeting with Juventude. Youngster Kauã Elias scored in the 31st minute, and from then on, the Cariocas closed in defensively, showing once again that they have been solid at the back since Thiago Silva and coach Mano Menezes arrived at the club. In the 91st minute, Keno confirmed the victory over one of the best teams in the Série A. It was Fluminense's third straight triumph, two for the league and one for the Copa Libertadores. Against Juventude, a draw wouldn't be a bad result, considering it's a direct opponent.

In Round 7, the teams drew 1-1 at the Maracanã in a game that showed the first signs that Fluminense had problems. Things have changed since then, and the Cariocas are playing much better, but beating Juventude in its stadium isn't easy. Probably, Fluminense will try to defend well and wait for the Gaúchos to make a mistake. I'm betting on a Double Chance in favor of Fluminense, with a maximum of three goals scored in the match.