Vasco da Gama vs Criciúma Prediction: The Cariocas are the favorites at home

It hasn't been an easy start to the Brasileirão for Vasco da Gama. After hosting Grêmio at home, two away games followed against RB Bragantino and Fluminense. These were three games against teams that finished in the top seven last year, so the difficulty level was high. The Cruzmaltino secured three points in three Série A rounds. In their next game, the Cariocas host Cricíúma and are the favorites but cannot underestimate their opponent, a side that drew at the Arena MRV against Atlético Mineiro.

Vasco's goal is to have a quiet campaign and avoid the turbulence of last season. The Hill's Giant only avoided relegation in the Série A final match, mainly due to a poor start in the Brasileirão. It is necessary to start picking up points now, but it's crucial to beat opponents like Criciúma, who will likely gravitate toward the bottom of the table. Ramon Díaz's side lost two away matches in a row by 2-1, against Bragantino and Fluminense, but fought to a draw in both games, leaving a good impression. The Vascaínos fans hope the team remains competitive and doesn't waste the opportunity to win the upcoming fixture.

The match with Fortaleza in Round 3 was postponed due to the Ceará side's participation in the Copa do Nordeste, so the Tiger only has played two games. The Catarinenses drew both matches and have already caused a surprise by bringing a point home from the stadium of Atlético Mineiro, which is in great form. Another draw at the São Januário would be welcome for Criciúma, as it would maintain its unbeaten run, helping to give confidence to the team that is taking its first steps in the Brasileirão.

It's one of those matches that Vasco must win. If the Cariocas want a quiet league campaign, they must beat teams like Criciúma at home. Not that the Catarinenses don't have quality, as they even drew at Atlético Mineiro, but if the Hill's Giant wants to reaffirm its status as a big club, it has to win these home games with smaller clubs. My bet is on a Vasco da Gama victory.