Fluminense vs São Paulo Prediction, Match Preview, Friday, 28 November

Fluminense vs São Paulo Prediction, Match Preview, Friday, 28 November. In the Brazilian Serie A, Fluminense will face São Paulo in what promises to be an intriguing encounter. With both teams vying for crucial points, this match could significantly impact their positions in the league standings.

Although the venue details are not specified, anticipation surrounding this clash remains high. Fluminense, renowned for their strong home performances, will look to capitalise on their familiarity with the conditions. Meanwhile, São Paulo will aim to leverage their away form to secure a vital win. As the teams prepare to meet, fans and bettors alike will be keenly watching to see which side can seize the advantage.

Fluminense vs São Paulo Prediction & Betting Tip

Betting Tip	Odds
Fluminense Draw No Bet	1.8

The betting markets slightly favour Fluminense, especially considering their strong home form and recent victory against Flamengo. Given the evenly matched nature of their head-to-head record, the Draw No Bet option provides a safer angle, protecting against the possibility of a tightly contested draw.

• Fluminense’s solid home form and attacking threat, especially with players like Acosta and Serna, make them a reliable choice.
• São Paulo’s defensive vulnerabilities and inconsistency on the road this season increase the chance of a home win or a draw.
• The recent 2-0 home victory for Fluminense over São Paulo adds confidence in their ability to secure at least a draw.

Betting Odds

Fluminense are entering this match as the favourites with odds of 1.82, reflecting their strong home form. São Paulo, on the other hand, are seen as the underdogs with odds of 4.63, but their potential to cause an upset should not be underestimated.

Betting Tip	Odds
Fluminense to win	1.82
Draw	3.22
São Paulo to win	4.63

The draw is priced at 3.22, which may attract those expecting a closely contested affair. With both teams having a knack for scoring, the over 2.5 goals market could also present a tempting opportunity for punters.

Fluminense Analysis & Past Performance

Fluminense have demonstrated solid form in their recent outings, securing a mid-table position with a current 7th standing in Serie A. They have accumulated 55 points thus far, reflecting a competitive edge in the league. Their recent results include a 0-0 stalemate against Palmeiras, alongside a notable 2-1 victory over Flamengo, showcasing resilience in both attack and defence.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Palmeiras	Fluminense	0 – 0 (Draw)	Serie A	23 Nov 2025
Fluminense	Flamengo	2 – 1 (Win)	Serie A	20 Nov 2025
Cruzeiro	Fluminense	0 – 0 (Draw)	Serie A	9 Nov 2025
Fluminense	Mirassol	1 – 0 (Win)	Serie A	6 Nov 2025
Ceará	Fluminense	2 – 0 (Loss)	Serie A	2 Nov 2025

Recent Form:
In their last five matches, Fluminense have achieved two wins, two draws, and suffered one loss, averaging 0.60 goals per game while conceding at the same rate. Their defensive efforts have been commendable, with three clean sheets, highlighting their ability to maintain stability at the back. At home, Fluminense have been particularly impressive, boasting a perfect record with five consecutive victories, underscoring their home-ground advantage.

Performance Analysis:

• DWDWL

Fluminense’s attack, led by their top scorer Germán Cano with six goals, has struggled for consistency, as reflected in their low scoring average. Despite this, their defensive record remains robust, with a clean sheet ratio of 60% over their last ten games, indicating a well-organised backline. Their home performance remains a key strength, with an 80% win ratio, which could be pivotal in securing positive results moving forward.

Fluminense Suspensions & Injuries

Fluminense face a challenging situation with crucial players sidelined due to injuries. Matheus Reis and Manoel are both out with long-term injuries, specifically cruciate ligament and knee injuries respectively, which significantly impacts their defensive solidity. Their expected return in early December 2025 means they will miss this key fixture. Germán Cano, who has been influential in attack, is also out with a sprained knee injury, expected to return in 1-2 weeks. His absence could blunt their offensive prowess, forcing coach Luis Zubeldía to make strategic adjustments.

The absence of Germán Cano might prompt Zubeldía to rely more heavily on Everaldo in the forward line. However, the lack of depth in attack could be a concern, potentially leading to a more conservative approach. In defence, the absence of Matheus Reis and Manoel might see Ignacio and Thiago Santos having to step up significantly to maintain stability at the back.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Matheus Reis	Cruciate ligament injury	Early December 2025
Manoel	Knee injury	Early December 2025
Germán Cano	Sprained knee	Around 1-2 weeks

With these key players unavailable, Fluminense may need to adopt a more cautious tactical approach, perhaps focusing on a solid midfield to compensate for the weakened defence and attack. This situation could influence betting markets, as the team might struggle to maintain its usual competitive edge against São Paulo. The lack of these pivotal players might make the match more evenly poised, potentially affecting the odds.

Fluminense Key Players

Fluminense’s attacking prowess will be significantly influenced by the dynamic forward, Agustín Canobbio. Known for his agility and sharp shooting skills, Canobbio can be a game-changer, especially in the absence of Germán Cano, the team’s top scorer. With Cano sidelined, Canobbio’s ability to find the back of the net becomes even more crucial. His partnership with Everaldo in the forward line is expected to be pivotal in breaking down São Paulo’s defence.

Luciano Acosta, operating in midfield, is another key player who could have a substantial tactical impact. His vision and playmaking ability are instrumental in transitioning from defence to attack. Acosta’s link-up play with Martinelli could dictate the tempo of the game, providing the creative spark needed to unlock the opposition’s defence.

Expected lineup for Fluminense:

• Goalkeeper: Fábio
• Defenders: Samuel Xavier, Thiago Silva, Juan Pablo Freytes, René
• Midfielders: Hércules, Martinelli, Luciano Acosta
• Forwards: Kevin Serna, Agustín Canobbio, Everaldo

Defensively, Thiago Silva’s experience and leadership at the back will be vital for Fluminense. His ability to organise the defence and read the game can thwart São Paulo’s attacking threats. Alongside Samuel Xavier, Silva’s defensive acumen will be crucial in maintaining a solid backline. The strength and resilience of these key players will be central to Fluminense’s strategy in this crucial Serie A clash.

Fluminense Tactics and Formation

Fluminense Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-2-3-1
• Key Forward: Everaldo
• Midfield Pivot: Martinelli and Nonato
• Defensive Strength: Three clean sheets in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: Effective defensive organisation and counter-attacking potential.

Fluminense’s 4-2-3-1 formation under Luis Zubeldía is designed to provide a balance between defensive stability and attacking flexibility. The midfield duo of Martinelli and Nonato plays a crucial role in shielding the defence while also facilitating transitions from defence to attack.

Defensively, Fluminense rely on the backline composed of Samuel Xavier, Ignacio, Thiago Santos, and Juan Freytes, which has contributed to three clean sheets in their last five games. The defensive organisation is key to their strategy, helping maintain a solid structure against opponents like Palmeiras, where they secured a 0-0 draw.

Offensively, the team look to leverage the pace and creativity of Vinícius Lima and Agustín Canobbio on the flanks, with Everaldo spearheading the attack. This setup allows Fluminense to exploit spaces on the counter-attack, a strategy that can be particularly effective against teams that press high or leave gaps at the back.

São Paulo Analysis & Past Performance

São Paulo’s recent form has been mixed, with two wins, two losses, and one draw in their last five matches. This inconsistency is reflected in their standing, as they occupy the 8th position in the Serie A league table with 48 points. Their recent victory against Juventude (2-1) was much needed, following a disappointing 3-1 loss to Corinthians.

Home Side	Away Side	Outcome	League	Date
São Paulo	Juventude	2 – 1 (Win)	Serie A	23 Nov 2025
Corinthians	São Paulo	3 – 1 (Loss)	Serie A	20 Nov 2025
São Paulo	Red Bull Bragantino	0 – 1 (Loss)	Serie A	9 Nov 2025
São Paulo	Flamengo	2 – 2 (Draw)	Serie A	6 Nov 2025
Vasco da Gama	São Paulo	0 – 2 (Win)	Serie A	2 Nov 2025

Recent Form:
Offensively, São Paulo average 1.40 goals per game in their last five outings, demonstrating a decent attacking capability spearheaded by Luciano Neves, who has netted 8 goals this season. However, their defence has been less reliable, conceding an average of 1.40 goals per game in the same period. Despite keeping just one clean sheet in their recent five matches, they have managed to score in four of these encounters, which suggests they are capable of troubling opposition defences.

Defensive solidity remains a concern, especially in away fixtures where they have lost three of their last five games. Their away win ratio stands at 40% for the season, indicating challenges in maintaining consistency on the road. Overall, São Paulo’s ability to score is counterbalanced by their vulnerability at the back, making their matches often unpredictable.

• WLLDW

São Paulo Suspensions & Injuries

São Paulo face a significant challenge with a comprehensive list of injuries and suspensions impacting their squad depth and tactical options. Key players like Jonathan Calleri, Ryan Francisco, and Enzo Díaz are out for the season with cruciate ligament injuries, severely affecting São Paulo’s attacking prowess and defensive solidity. The absence of Lucas Moura due to a knee injury and Oscar’s heart problems further limits their creative options in midfield.

Player	Suspension	Matches Remaining	Expected Return
Sabino	Yellow cards	1	Unknown
Rafael	Yellow cards	1	Unknown

The suspensions of Sabino and Rafael for accumulating yellow cards will force manager Hernán Crespo to reassess his defensive lineup. Nahuel Ferraresi and Alan Franco will need to step up, while potential adjustments in midfield could see players like Maik Gomes and Pablo Maia take on more responsibility. The tactical impact of these absences could see São Paulo adopt a more conservative approach, focusing on compactness and counter-attacking strategies.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Jonathan Calleri	Cruciate ligament injury	Out for season
Ryan Francisco	Cruciate ligament injury	Out for season
André Silva	Cruciate ligament injury	Out for season
Luan Santos	Thigh injury	Early December 2025
Wendell	Foot injury	Early December 2025
Juan Dinenno	Knee injury	Early December 2025
Rodriguinho	Knee injury	Early December 2025
Oscar	Heart problems	Early December 2025
Enzo Díaz	Hernia	Out for season
Lucas Moura	Knee injury	Out for season
Robert Arboleda	Thigh injury	Early December 2025
Rafael Tolói	Thigh injury	Early December 2025
Aldemir Ferreira	Thigh injury	Doubtful

With the combination of injuries and suspensions, São Paulo’s squad depth is stretched thin, which could have significant implications for their performance against Fluminense. Bettors might consider these absences when evaluating São Paulo’s chances, as the team will need to rely on less experienced players to fill key roles, potentially impacting their overall effectiveness on the pitch.

São Paulo Key Players

São Paulo will rely heavily on Luciano Neves, their top scorer with 8 goals, to spearhead their attack against Fluminense. Luciano’s sharp instincts and ability to find space in the opposition’s defence make him a constant threat in the final third. His partnership with Gonzalo Tapia up front will be crucial for São Paulo’s offensive output. Tapia’s agility and pace complement Luciano’s clinical finishing, forming a dynamic duo capable of unlocking defences.

In midfield, Pablo Maia and Damián Bobadilla are pivotal in controlling the tempo and providing defensive solidity. Maia’s passing range and Bobadilla’s tenacity in breaking up play are vital for São Paulo’s tactical approach. The defensive unit, led by Nahuel Ferraresi and Alan Franco, must remain resolute to withstand Fluminense’s attacking prowess. Ferraresi’s aerial ability and Franco’s positional awareness are key strengths that could help São Paulo secure a clean sheet.

Expected lineup for São Paulo:

• Goalkeeper: Young
• Defence: Maik, Nahuel Ferraresi, Alan Franco
• Midfield: Cédric Soares, Pablo Maia, Luiz Gustavo, Damián Bobadilla, Patryck
• Forward: Luciano, Gonzalo Tapia

São Paulo Tactics and Formation

São Paulo Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 3-5-2
• Key Forward: Luciano Neves
• Midfield Pivot: Pablo Maia and Luiz Gustavo
• Defensive Strength: Only one clean sheet in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: Emphasis on wing-back play and central midfield control.

São Paulo’s use of a 3-5-2 formation allows them to utilise the width of the pitch with wing-backs Maik Gomes and Ferreira providing both defensive cover and offensive support. This setup maximises the attacking threat of Luciano Neves, the team’s top scorer with eight goals, who is pivotal in converting chances created by the midfield.

Defensively, São Paulo’s back three of Nahuel Ferraresi, Alan Franco, and Sabino are tasked with maintaining a compact structure. Despite their efforts, the team have struggled to keep clean sheets, achieving just one in their last five fixtures, indicating potential vulnerabilities in defensive transitions.

Offensively, São Paulo emphasise control in the central areas with Pablo Maia and Luiz Gustavo orchestrating play. Their ability to maintain possession and dictate tempo is crucial for transitioning from defence to attack, though the team’s recent form shows inconsistency with mixed results in their last five matches.

Fluminense vs São Paulo Head-to-Head Record

In the head-to-head record between Fluminense and São Paulo, Fluminense have secured 19 wins, while São Paulo are just behind with 18 victories, and they’ve drawn 12 times. Their last encounter saw São Paulo triumph 3-1 at home in Serie A, showcasing their attacking prowess.

When it comes to their Serie A clashes, the competition remains fierce, with both teams showing they can win on any given day. Fluminense have the edge at home, but São Paulo’s recent away form cannot be underestimated.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	League	Date
São Paulo	Fluminense	3 – 1	Serie A	2025-07-27
Fluminense	São Paulo	2 – 0	Serie A	2024-09-01
São Paulo	Fluminense	2 – 1	Serie A	2024-05-13
Fluminense	São Paulo	1 – 0	Serie A	2023-11-23
São Paulo	Fluminense	1 – 0	Serie A	2023-07-01