Gremio vs Operario Ferroviario predictions for this Copa do Brasil match. The bottom two clash as 16th-placed Vasteras SK host 15th-placed IFK Norrkoping at Hitachi Energy Arena on Sunday. Read on for our free match preview and betting tips.
Copa do Brasil | Jul 14, 2024 at 3pm UK at Estadio Francisco Stedile
Don’t Have a William Hill account? Click below to claim this offer👇
Gremio vs Operario Ferroviario Predictions
Will Gremio Overcome Their Struggles Against Operario?
Key Stats
– Gremio have won all three of their home league games this season.
– Operario have the best defensive record in Serie B, conceding only nine goals.
– Franco Cristaldo has scored ten goals across all competitions this season.
Gremio, aiming for their sixth Copa do Brasil title, will face second-tier side Operario Ferroviario at Estadio Francisco Stedile on Sunday afternoon. The second leg of their third-round tie comes after a goalless draw in the first leg, leaving everything to play for in this decisive match.
Current Form and Season Overview
Gremio’s journey this season has been tumultuous. Despite finishing second last year after a fierce battle with Palmeiras, they now find themselves embroiled in a relegation fight. Their recent form is concerning, having won only one of their last ten matches across the Brasileiro and Copa Libertadores. A recent home defeat to Cruzeiro, where they conceded early goals to Ramiro and Arthur, highlighted their struggles.
Occupying 18th place in the top-flight standings, three points adrift of safety, Gremio’s immediate priority is to avoid the drop to Serie B. They have secured all three of their league victories this year at their home ground, providing a glimmer of hope for their supporters. Striker Franco Cristaldo has been a rare bright spot, with ten goals in all competitions, inching towards his best-ever season tally.
On the other hand, Operario Ferroviario have shown resilience in Serie B. Following a streak of four consecutive 1-0 victories in June, their form has dipped slightly with a three-match winless run. Despite this, they remain just three points off the top of the standings, highlighting the competitive nature of the second tier. Their defensive strength has been their cornerstone, conceding only nine goals in 14 league matches.
Team News and Predicted Lineups
Gremio are missing striker Andre, who has not featured this season due to an ankle injury. Additionally, Diego Costa is sidelined with a muscle problem. Felipe Carballo is another absentee, also out with a muscle injury. These absences have limited Renato Gaucho’s options in attack and midfield.
Gremio likely lineup:
- Marchesin; Pedro, Martins, Kannemann, Reinaldo; Dodi, Villasanti, Pepe, Queiroz, Gomes; Everton
Operario Ferroviario are expected to maintain their solid defensive pairing of Alemao and Willian Machado. However, there may be changes up front, with Guilherme Pira and Emaxwell pushing for starting spots.
Operario Ferroviario likely lineup:
- Santos; Savio, Alemao, Machado, Para; Jacy, Indio, Lucas; Farofa, Augusto, Pira
Tactical Analysis and Key Battles
The battle will likely be decided in midfield, where Gremio’s ability to control possession and create opportunities will be crucial. Pepe and Villasanti’s roles in linking defence and attack will be vital. Gremio’s defence, led by experienced players like Kannemann, must be vigilant against counter-attacks, particularly from Operario’s pacey forwards.
For Operario, their defensive organisation will be key. They have relied heavily on their backline’s solidity, and maintaining that will be crucial if they are to frustrate Gremio. The duels between Gremio’s attacking trio and Operario’s defensive unit could be decisive.
Expected Goals (xG) Analysis
Gremio’s xG suggests they have been underperforming in front of goal, a trend they need to reverse to climb the table. Their xGA (expected goals against) is high, indicating defensive vulnerabilities that opponents have exploited. In contrast, Operario’s xG is modest, reflecting their conservative approach, while their xGA is low, showcasing their defensive discipline.
Gameplay and Strategic Insights
The match is likely to see Gremio dominate possession, attempting to break down a well-organised Operario defence. Gremio’s strategy will involve quick transitions and exploiting spaces in the wide areas, with their full-backs playing a crucial role in providing width. They must be wary of Operario’s counter-attacks, as the visitors will look to capitalise on any defensive lapses.
Operario will aim to stay compact, frustrate Gremio, and take their chances on the break. Their strategy will involve deep defensive lines and quick, direct play when they regain possession. Maintaining their defensive discipline while seeking to exploit set-pieces and counter-attacking opportunities will be their main focus.
Areas for Improvement
Gremio must improve their defensive organisation and reduce errors that have led to goals. Their attacking play needs to be more clinical, converting the chances they create. Renato Gaucho must also show tactical flexibility to adapt to in-game situations effectively.
Operario, while strong defensively, need to improve their attacking output. Finding a balance between defence and attack will be crucial if they aim to upset Gremio. Their forward players must step up and take their chances when they arise.
Managerial Critique
Renato Gaucho of Gremio faces significant scrutiny. Despite the quality in his squad, his inability to stabilise the team and instil a consistent playing style has been evident. His tactical decisions have often been questioned, particularly his in-game adjustments and use of substitutions. Gaucho must demonstrate better strategic planning to guide Gremio out of their current predicament.
In contrast, Rafael Guanaes of Operario has done a commendable job with limited resources. His ability to organise the team defensively has been impressive. However, his conservative approach sometimes leaves the team lacking offensively. Balancing their defensive solidity with a more proactive attacking strategy could elevate Operario’s performances.
Betting Angles and Predictions
Best Bet: Gremio to Win Despite their struggles, Gremio possess enough quality to overcome second-tier opposition. Their home form has been relatively strong, and with key players like Cristaldo finding form, they should edge this contest.
Correct Score Prediction: Gremio 2-0 Operario Ferroviario Gremio’s defensive solidity at home, combined with their attacking potential, suggests a comfortable win. Operario’s lack of firepower makes it unlikely they will breach Gremio’s defence.
Goalscorer Prediction: Franco Cristaldo Cristaldo has been in fine form this season, leading Gremio’s scoring charts. His ability to find space and finish chances makes him a strong candidate to score.
First Half Result: Gremio Leading Gremio are likely to start strongly, aiming to assert their dominance early. Given Operario’s tendency to play defensively, Gremio should take the lead in the first half.
Innovative Market Prediction: Total Corners Over 9.5 With Gremio expected to dominate possession and create numerous chances, a high number of corners is likely. Both teams’ playing styles suggest that over 9.5 corners is a plausible bet.
Top UK Bookies & Best Sign Up Offers
Subscribe To Our Newsletter For Exclusive Tips
Want to have exclusive tips from experts tipsters delivered right into your inbox? Subscribe Now To Our Newsletter. We will never spam, we fully respect your privacy!
