Fortaleza vs Vasco da Gama Prediction: The Cearenses are improving

Fortaleza lost to Botafogo in Round 25 when they were leading the Brasileirão, and from then on, the team never showed the same solidity and consistency. The draw away to Palmeiras and the 3-0 win over Juventude in Caxias do Sul are signs of improvement and suggest the Cearenses could eventually finish in the top four and qualify for the Copa Libertadores.

The Lion was dominant and didn't give Juventude any chances. Two goals close to half-time decided the game, leaving the home fans stunned. Fortaleza's determination and aggressiveness were visible as Vojvoda's men didn't allow Juventude to build up its play. Fortaleza is the only team unbeaten at home, but its performances drop considerably on the road. However, in the last two rounds, The Cearenses have shown more confidence and picked up four points away from home. At the Arena Castelão, Fortaleza is the favorite against Vasco.

The Giant didn't have enough power to stop its rival Botafogo and lost 3-0. Vasco started the derby badly, and it was already losing 2-0 after 12 minutes. João Victor received a red card close to half-time, leaving Vasco da Gama with ten players and few chances to fight for a draw. Rafael Paiva's side still conceded 3-0 in a game to forget. The Cruzmaltino is in ninth place and is still dreaming of qualifying for the Copa Libertadores, as there is a possibility that the places for Brazilian clubs could increase to nine.

Fortaleza seems to be returning to its best form and will want to maintain its invincibility at home. Vasco da Gama must perform strongly to secure points at one of the league's most challenging venues, the Arena Castelão. The Cearenses are in third place, but Flamengo and Internacional are close behind. I'm betting on Fortaleza to win.