Fluminense vs. Vitória – News and Probable Lineups

Match overview

What initially seemed like a manageable Libertadores group for Fluminense has rapidly morphed into a challenging scenario after their fourth-round match. The team could only muster a 1-1 draw against Independiente Rivadavia in Argentina, leaving them at the bottom of the group with just two points.

The performance raised fresh alarm bells among supporters, as Fluminense conceded 15 shots, with Fabio making two key saves and a dangerous strike hitting the crossbar. Alex Arce opened the scoring for the Argentine team in the 66th minute, but John Kennedy, who came off the bench, equalized during stoppage time.

To advance to the knockout phase, Fluminense must avoid any more dropped points in the group, with critical matches against Bolívar and La Guaira still ahead in Rio de Janeiro. The draw marked the third consecutive game without a victory across all competitions for the Rio squad.

The nadir of this streak occurred last Sunday when they fell 2-0 to Internacional in the Brasileirão. The Tricolor’s defeat expanded the gap between them and the league leaders to seven points, marking their fourth loss in the Brasileirão, with three of those being away from home—a stark disparity compared to their Maracanã record, where they have secured six wins out of seven fixtures, an impressive 86% success rate.

Despite these setbacks, Fluminense’s points tally in the national league still positions them strongly, currently sitting third with 26 points. However, some choices made by Zubeldia are beginning to frustrate the supporters.

Last Wednesday, Vitoria kept their hopes in the Copa do Nordeste alive by defeating Ceara at the Barradão, thanks to a goal from Renato Kayser. This center-forward’s contribution ensured a semi-final spot in the “Lampions League.”

It has been 16 years since the Bahian side last lifted this trophy, reaching the semi-finals three times since—in 2015, 2017, and 2021. Beyond their cup success, the win also added to Vitória’s impressive home record in Salvador, achieving five victories from their last six matches at the Barradão.

Prior to this, they recorded a commanding 4-1 victory against Coritiba at home, propelling them into the top half of the Brasileirão. The comprehensive win featured goals from Renê Sousa, Zé Vitor, Diego Tarzia, and Erick, who capitalized on the numerical advantage to dominate their rivals.

However, their away form in the Brasileirão has been less effective: they have averaged 0.67 goals scored but conceded 2.5 per game when playing away, failing to secure any victories. Vitória holds the second-worst away record in the league.

With their current momentum, the team is keen to gather three points on the road and keep their aspirations of advancing into the upper standings alive. They will also draw confidence from an unbeaten run of three matches against Fluminense in Rio de Janeiro, consisting of one win and two draws since 2018.

Team News

Fluminense will be missing Jemmes in defense due to suspension after receiving his third yellow card in the loss to Internacional. Ignacio is likely to partner Freytes in the center of defense.

A key plus from the match in Argentina was the return of Lucho Acosta, who has recovered from a minor injury. He may keep his starting spot, though his fitness will need careful monitoring. John Kennedy, who made a significant impact against Rivadavia, is expected to lead the attack after Castillo’s lackluster performance.

Meanwhile, midfielder Martinelli, striker German Cano, and young defender Matheus Reis remain out due to injuries.

For Vitoria, their standout performer in the Brasileirão—who has tallied two goals and three assists—Erick will serve a one-match suspension on Saturday due to comments he made criticizing officiating after the defeat to Athletico-PR. His original two-match ban was cut to one.

Midfielder Matheuzinho is also suspended after collecting his third yellow card against Coritiba. This week, both Renato Kayser and Baralhas returned from injury and are in contention for a place in the starting lineup.

Fluminense probable starting XI:

Fabio; Samuel Xavier, Ignacio, Freytes, Guilherme Arana; Alisson, Hércules, Lucho Acosta; Savarino, Canobbio (Soteldo), John Kennedy. Manager: Luis Zubeldia.

Vitoria probable starting XI:

Lucas Archangel; Nathan Mendes, Caca, Luan Candido, Ramon; Ze Vitor and Caique (Baralhas); Marinho, Emmanuel Martinez and Diego Tarzia; Rene (Renato Kayser). Manager: Jair Ventura.

The Bahian outfit has faced challenges in finding their best form while playing away, conceding 15 of their 18 goals on the road. Without their most important player, Vitoria might struggle to withstand continual pressure from the home side.