Coritiba vs Athletico-PR Prediction: In a round full of classics, the one from Paraná couldn't be missing

This Curitiba city derby (the city name is spelled with a 'u' and the club with an 'o') is the biggest classic in Paraná. Brazilians like to name their classics, and this one is known as 'Atletiba', combining the names of the two clubs as 'Grenal', the Gaúcho classic between Grêmio and Internacional. The passion for football is enormous in Brazil, as it shows in every detail. Coritiba is in last place, and it seems almost impossible to avoid relegation to the Série B, but one thing is certain: a win against its rival is the most important thing in the world at this point. Athletico Paranaense is superior, but its players know that the Coxa is wounded in its pride and will fight for victory in the 'Atletiba', so caution is needed.

What can be done to break an eight-game losing streak? Coach Thiago Kosloski is trying to inject some confidence into his players, but it's not easy. Perhaps a derby is a greater motivating factor, as the rivalry can increase the team's aggression levels. Coritiba has just 14 points in the Brasileirão, 12 behind Goiás, the team placed above the relegation zone. There are 14 games and 42 points to play for, so mathematically, salvation is possible. Above all, it is about belief.

Despite beating Internacional 2-1 in the last round, the game was marked by the young star Vitor Roque's injury in the 7th minute. The future Barcelona player suffered a hard tackle from Nicolás Hernandéz and is unlikely to play again for the Furacão. The recovery should take two months, precisely when the Série A season ends. Athletico is in sixth place and is still fighting for a place in the next edition of the Copa Libertadores. Of course, the team wants to beat rival Coritiba and pick up another three points.

I'm backing Athletico-PR to win this Paraná derby. It's true that the Furacão team lost its star player to injury, but that didn't stop the side from beating Inter in the last round. Still, it's worth remembering that Athletico also has Arturo Vidal out injured. The Coxa has the worst defense in the league and eight defeats in a row. A win for the home team would be a big surprise.