Betfair Live Video: Fred's Flu to floor the Champions

Cruzeiro will have to cope without star man Ricardo Goulart..

Reuben Thomas previews Sunday's big showdown from Rio which sees the leaders attempt to extend their advantage despite the absence of some of their top performers..

Fluminense vs Cruzeiro
Sunday 20:00

The match of the weekend in the Brazilian Campeonato comes from Rio as Fluminense host leaders Cruzeiro.

Just a few weeks ago after a poor start to the season the Flu fans were rioting in the streets and attacking the players but recently Cristovao Borges' team seems to have turned the corner.

Although still struggling on their travels they are now unbeaten in seven at home at the Maracana and their league position is looking a lot healthier. They are just one place off a Copa Libertadores qualification spot.

Captain and talisman Fred is back among the goals which will be a huge relief considering his desperately disappointing show over the summer. He has five goals to his name so far and will start up top with the Conca, Sobis and Cicero supporting from attacking midfield positions.

At the back Flu will also be hoping to recall keeper Diego Cavalieri who has been out injured for the last few games, his return could be timely as they face the reigning champions.

Once again Cruzeiro are the pace setters and as we enter the nineteenth round of fixtures they already pose an eight point lead at the top.

Thirteen matches without a loss and six wins in a row sees the free scoring 'Raposa' charging towards back to back titles. 

Strike pair of Ricardo Goulart and Marcelo Moreno both already have nine goals each and Everton Ribeiro has eight assists as he pulls the strings from midfield.

However with the international fixtures they will not be at full strength on Sunday. Coach Marcelo Oliviera will have to select his team without either Goulart or Ribeiro and so the big Bolivian Moreno will take center stage.

Despite their superb recent form we're still yet to see how Cruzeiro can cope without some of their top stars, the boys from Belo Horizonte may be at their most vulnerable and this may be one of the rare opportunities this season to oppose the champions.

Recommended Bets:
Back Fluminense to win @ 2.588/5
Back Under 2.5 Goals @ 1.824/5