São Paulo vs Internacional Prediction: Expect a balanced game

São Paulo won't be fielding its best line-up against Internacional because the team is trying to qualify for the Copa Libertadores semi-finals. Zubeldía's side will host Botafogo in midweek, so the game with Internacional is not a priority. The visitors have a realistic chance of getting a good result as they are focused only on the Brasileirão.

The Tricolor Paulista gave a lesson in defending against Botafogo and drew 0-0 at the Nilton Santos. The Cariocas were unlucky in the first half, sending two balls into the posts of Rafael's goal, but in the second half, the visitors neutralized their opponents' attacks. Unlike Botafogo, São Paulo has a long tradition in the Copa Libertadores, and this factor could swing the tie in its direction. In the Brasileirão, the Paulistas are in fifth place after beating Cruzeiro 1-0 away from home. In Belo Horizonte, Zubeldía didn't field his best team and will probably do the same against Internacional.

The Colorado is on the rise and is closing in on sixth place, which grants access to the Copa Libertadores qualifying round. Inter cruised to a 3-0 win over Cuiabá in its latest match. It was the Gaúchos' third consecutive win and their fifth game unbeaten. Internacional is in eighth place with 38 points and has two games in hand. São Paulo is in fifth place with 44 points, and Inter could move closer to its next opponent. It's not easy to win at the Morumbi, but it's possible, bearing in mind that the Paulistas won't be at full strength.

São Paulo is a strong team, especially at home, but the visitors are going through a period of great confidence. The Paulistas probably won't field their best version against Inter, given that this game comes in the middle of the two Copa Libertadores quarter-finals. Nevertheless, São Paulo has the best chance of winning, but if the game ends in a draw, it won't be a surprise. That's the result I'm betting on.