Santos vs Corinthians Analysis and Predictions
By Allan
Santos Vs Corinthians
The Brasileiro Serie A campaign has started to take shape with both of these teams looking to capitalize and gain maximum points. Santos have had a number of home draws in the recent past and it reveals the defensive philosophy that they have. Santos have only taken one point from Fluminese, Coritiba and Cruzeiro and this has made them lose ground on Gremio who are second. Corinthians have lost two of the last three games, which will concern the coach Fabio Carille.
Analysis
Corinthians are yet to lose away from home this season and they look to keep that record against Santos. Furthermore, they have won eight of their last ten away fixtures and conceded just twice in these matches. Santos have remained strong at home therefore it will not be easy to get three points from them at home. The match is expected to be a cagey affair and the last six matches between these two sides has realized under 2.5 goals. Santos sit third while Corinthians are first on the log.
Santos will take the match seriously as they look to get back into title contention. Santos are 15 games unbeaten in all competitions and will look to maintain the tight defence.However,the string of draws will cause much concern as they are losing ground on the top 2 teams. The leaders Corinthians are starting to feel the heat at the top and pressure in recent games has seen them suffer a home defeat to Vitoria and failure to win Atletico GO. The main focus will be avoiding defeat to the home team at all costs. The last eight encounters between these teams are evenly split and each team has won four games. Santos are unbeaten for 15 games and their last five matches have seen a goal average of 0.6 goals. Corinthians have not been defeated on the road this season and have kept clean sheets in nine out of the last ten games.
Team News
Santos are without center back David Braz who is suspended. Gustavo Henrique is expected to start in his absence.Vitor Bueno will also miss the match as well.Nilmar is also expected to make an appearance at some point during the game. Corinthians are without Marquinhos Gabriel and Leo Santos who are both injured. Angel Romero is expected to be given the go ahead for the game.
Possible Lineups
Santos:Vanderlei,Ferraz,Henrique,Lucas,Zeca,Renato,Alison,Lima,Copete,Oliveira,Henrique
Corinthians:Cassio,Fagner,Balbuena,Pablo,Arana,Maycon,Gabriel,Jadson,Rodriguinho,Romero,Jo
Players to Watch
Santos will rely on Henrique and Copete for goals as they have been prolific so far.Fagner and Jo will be key for Corinthians and may help the team to clinch the away victory if not handled properly.