Verdict: Home win
Best odds: 4/9
Bookmaker: Olympusbet
Fluminense and Once Caldas are set to face off in the final round of the group stage of the CONMEBOL Sudamericana on Thursday at the famous Maracana stadium, with the top spot in Group F up for grabs. Once Caldas top the table with 12 points from previous five games, two more than second-placed Fluminense.
Fluminense enter this clash on the back of a 2-1 win over Vasco da Gama a few days ago, while Once Caldas arrive to Rio de Janeiro after a 1-0 triumph over Deportivo Cali in the Colombian Categoria Primera A.
Fluminense
Fluminense enters this Sudamericana fixture with renewed confidence, blending seasoned leadership with emerging talent. The Rio de Janeiro club, currently mid-table in the 2025 Brasileirao, has shown signs of resurgence under coach Mano Menezes, particularly in continental competitions.
Veteran striker German Cano remains the focal point of Fluminense’s attack. After a challenging 2024, the 37-year-old Argentine has rediscovered his scoring touch, netting 10 goals in 11 matches at the start of 2025, including a decisive brace in the Copa do Brasil. His leadership and finishing prowess continue to inspire the squad.
Complementing Cano is a trio of promising talents from Fluminense’s renowned Xerem academy. Midfielder Matheus Martinelli, a consistent presence since 2020, offers stability and creativity in the midfield. Defender Lucas Justen, capable of playing both right-back and centre-back, has begun to establish himself in the first team.
The spotlight, however, shines brightest on 18-year-old Riquelme Felipe. Dubbed the “new Riquelme,” his dribbling skills, vision, and composure have captivated fans and pundits alike, earning him the revelation award in the Campeonato Carioca.
Fluminense’s recent form has been promising, with a series of strong performances in domestic and continental competitions. The team’s blend of experience and youth has been instrumental in their current run, and they aim to carry this momentum into the Sudamericana.
Team News
Fluminense will be without midfielder Paulo Henrique Ganso, sidelined due to myocarditis diagnosed during pre-season medical exams . His absence opens opportunities for younger players – like Riquelme Felipe – to step up.
The rest of the squad is expected to be available, providing Mano Menezes with a range of options for squad rotation.
Once Caldas
Once Caldas approaches this Sudamericana encounter aiming to stabilize their season. The Colombian side, currently positioned in the lower half of the Categoría Primera A standings, has experienced a mix of results in recent matches.
Under the guidance of coach Hernan Dario Herrera, the team is in a phase of rebuilding, focusing on integrating young talents into the first team.
The squad features a blend of seasoned players and emerging prospects. Veteran midfielder Juan David Rodriguez provides experience in the middle of the park, while young forward Dayro Moreno has been tasked with leading the attacking line. Defensively, the team relies on the leadership of captain Andres Felipe Correa to organize the backline.
Once Caldas’ recent form has been inconsistent, with the team struggling to find a rhythm in both domestic league and cup competitions. Their away performances have been particularly concerning, a factor that could influence their approach against Fluminense.
Team News
Once Caldas is expected to field a full-strength squad, with no major injuries reported ahead of the match.
Coach Herrera may consider tactical adjustments to address the team’s recent defensive vulnerabilities, possibly introducing a more conservative setup to counter Fluminense’s attacking threats.
Conclusion
Fluminense’s combination of experienced campaigners and dynamic young talents positions them as favorites in this fixture. Their recent form, particularly at home, suggests they have the momentum to secure a positive result and overtake their opponents in the race for the top spot in the group.
Once Caldas, while capable of resilience, may find it challenging to contain Fluminense’s attacking prowess.
Verdict: Home win
Best odds: 4/9
Bookmaker: Olympusbet
- Soccer News Like
- Be the first of your friends!
