Gremio can issue Corinthians first defeat of season

Brazilian Serie A
8pm Sunday

Table-topping Corinthians are yet to taste defeat this season but they are just one point ahead of fellow title-chasers Gremio and should find the defensively-sound hosts their toughest test yet.

Gremio have won all four of their league encounters at their Porto Alegre base and victory would move them to the Serie A summit.

Renato Portaluppi’s troops have recorded home successes over Coritiba, Bahia, Vasco De Gama and Botafogo without conceding a goal and they are unlikely to be put off by the visit of the league leaders, who failed to break down Coritiba on their most recent outing.

Corinthians have dropped only two points on their travels but they needed to work hard to achieve 1-0 wins at Vitoria and Atletico Go – who are in the relegation places – and will be punished if arriving in the same heart.

Former Manchester City frontman Jo headlines the visitors’ attacking options and he has netted five times from his nine appearances.

However, Gremio will be aware of his threat and his influence should be kept to a minimum.

The hosts are the top-flight’s leading scorers with 23 goals and their strength in depth in the final third may give them a significant advantage.

Rising youngster Everton, the pacy Luan and veteran Lucas Barrios give them impressive attacking options and they can extend their 100 per cent home record.

Recommendation
Gremio
1pt 20-21 Betfair, Betfred