Corinthians - Sao Paulo predictions and free betting tips [16/06/2024]

On Sunday, 16th June, as part of Round 9 of the Brazilian Serie A, Corinthians will host São Paulo. The hosts have not tasted victory in their last four league matches and are only one point above the relegation zone, while the visitors are just three points behind the leading Flamengo.

Corinthians

Corinthians are struggling in the league, amassing only six points in the first eight rounds. They are just one point ahead of the relegation zone team Criciúma, making it crucial to regain their form swiftly. Last week, the white-blacks drew 2-2 at home with Atlético Goianiense: Yuri Alberto scored a brace within an hour, but then Kaka inadvertently turned the ball into his own net, and Shaylon scored in added time. Previously, the hosts lost 1-0 to Botafogo and have not won in four consecutive league matches. Additionally alarming for the coaching staff is the lack of goals in recent matches: apart from Botafogo, Antonio Oliveira's men failed to score against Fortaleza and Flamengo (2-0). It is worth noting that the hosts have scored only five points in four home matches, ranking 14th in the overall standings.

Despite the slow league start, Corinthians excelled in the Copa Sudamericana, advancing to the tournament's playoffs. Knee-injured Maicon will be unavailable tonight, as will Ruan Oliveira (2 goals last season), Pedro Henrique, and defender Fagner. However, they can rely on Wesley (2 goals) and Yuri Alberto, who scored twice in the last round; Garro and Raniele will ensure midfield security, and Miguel will don the goalkeeper's gloves.

São Paulo

São Paulo see themselves as contenders in Serie A, currently sitting 5th in the league, just two points behind leaders Flamengo, who play Atlético Goianiense tonight. Recently, the Tricolores have shown fine form, remaining unbeaten in the last 12 matches across all competitions, with a record of nine wins and three draws. However, last week they failed to secure three points against Internacional (0-0), ending their streak of three consecutive victories – against Cruzeiro (2-0), Fluminense (2-1), and Vitória (1-3). A derby success could allow Luis Zubeldía's men to finish the week in first place in the overall standings, but they need not only to defeat Corinthians but also hope for slip-ups by Flamengo and Bahia.

It is important to note that São Paulo have conceded no goals in their last five matches across all competitions, while scoring an average of two goals per game this campaign. The coaching staff will have to do without key goalkeeper Rafael, midfielder Bobadilla, and defender Ferraresi, who are with their national teams; Pablo Maia and Rafinha are also injured. Former Tottenham and PSG forward Lucas Moura (1 goal in the league) and Jonathan Calleri (2 goals in 7 matches this season) will lead the attack, while experienced Gustavo and Alisson will play in the holding midfield roles. Vinicius and Wellington will occupy the flanks of the defence, and Jandrei will be the goalkeeper.

Head-to-Head

São Paulo have won the last three head-to-head encounters, including a 1-2 victory in January this year.

Prediction for Corinthians vs São Paulo

Corinthians have been struggling lately and lie near the bottom of the standings, while São Paulo remain unbeaten in their last 12 matches, boasting nine wins. Furthermore, a victory tonight could propel the visitors to the top of the standings, providing extra motivation for Luis Zubeldía's squad. I wager on a victory for São Paulo with a 0 handicap.