Grêmio hosts Fortaleza at the Arena in a matchup for the 29th round of the Campeonato Brasileiro. The duel, which kicks off at 21:30, is unusual for Serie A matches as it increases Grêmio's quest for points to improve their standings.
After a goalless draw against league leaders Botafogo in Brasília, the Tricolor Gaúcho finds itself in 13th place with 32 points. Despite missing key players such as goalkeeper Marchesín, midfielder Villasanti, and playmaker Monsalve, the team managed by Renato Portaluppi remains focused on overcoming Fortaleza, currently sitting in 3rd place in the competition. Juan Pablo Vojvoda's side arrives in high spirits, looking to maintain their position in the G-4.
A Unique Friday Showdown
The fact that the game is being held on a Friday is noteworthy, as it is an atypical day for Serie A confrontations. This is due to the elections in Brazil, which led the CBF to schedule this round's matches between October 3, 4, and 5. Thus, it will be the first top-flight matchup in this edition on a Friday.
Grêmio's Recent Form and Key Players
Grêmio's recent form has been a mixed bag. The team is looking to bounce back from a draw against Botafogo and is eager to secure a victory against Fortaleza. They have 5 wins, 3 losses and 2 draws, averaging 1.5 goals from 4.2 shots on goal and 9.2 attempts. They have averaged 46.2% possession, 365.3 passes and 4.8 corners per game, with the opposition getting 1.2 goals from 5.0 shots on goal, 11.9 attempts and 5.7 corners.
Fortaleza's Recent Form and Key Players
Fortaleza is currently in 3rd place in the Brasileirão and arrives at the Arena with a strong desire to maintain their position in the G-4. The team has been playing well, with 7 victories, 2 defeats and 1 draw, with an average of 1.4 goals from 3.9 shots on goal and 8.2 attempts. The Lion of the Pici have averaged 44.0% possession, 370.7 passes, 3.5 corners awarded and 7.4 corners against, while they’ve conceded 0.8 goals from 5.1 shots on goal and 10.6 attempts.
The Match-up and Analysis
The matchup between Grêmio and Fortaleza is an intriguing one. Both teams are capable of playing attractive football, and the game promises to be an exciting one for the neutral spectator. Grêmio's need for points makes them a strong contender, but Fortaleza's strong form and recent victory against Grêmio give them an edge in the game.
Key Grêmio vs Fortaleza league stats:
- Grêmio have scored 14 goals in their last 10 games, while Fortaleza have scored 12 goals in the same period.
- Grêmio have conceded 11 goals in their last 10 games, while Fortaleza have conceded 8 goals in the same period.
- Grêmio have won 2 of their last 10 matches against Fortaleza, while Fortaleza have won 4 of their last 10 matches against Grêmio.
- The average number of goals scored in matches between Grêmio and Fortaleza is 2.5.
Prediction for the Game
Given the recent form of both teams, the matchup's importance for Grêmio, and the historical rivalry between the two clubs, we anticipate an intensely fought game. We believe the outcome will likely be a close contest, with a draw being the most likely result.
The Final Whistle
The Grêmio vs. Fortaleza match on Friday holds a significant weight for both teams. While Grêmio looks to climb the Brasileirão table, Fortaleza seeks to maintain their position in the G-4. This Friday night match is set to be an exciting encounter with both teams vying for the victory, but with Fortaleza coming out on top in recent encounters, we predict the match to be a close one with a draw being the most probable outcome.
