Ah, there's nothing quite like the heated rivalry of Mirassol versus Atlético Mineiro. Like diet versus full-fat soda, they both have their fans.
Our skilled goalkeepers for today: On Mineiro's side, we've got Everson, a veritable wall with a 7.02 rating and 14 saves. And for Mirassol, there's Alex Muralha, who isn't too shabby himself with a 6.90 rating and 12 saves. Not quite the Great Wall of China, but still impressive.
Mineiro sports an impressive squad with rope-a-dope Scarpa leading the charge with an accurate pass percentage that would make a Swiss watchmaker envious. Lyanco and Arana aren't far behind, either. And let's not forget dear old Rony, who's managed to send one goal flying past some hapless keeper. Hope he didn't get too dizzy.
On the sunny side of Mirassol, Danielzinho and Borges lead the way. Borges, mind you, has 2 goals under his belt. He scores goals like they're going out of fashion. Gabriel and Lucas Ramon add some meat to the bite with a goal each this season. Ah, scoring goals... Some people dream of it, these chaps live it.
Regular season records, you ask? Mineiro comes in at 1-2-2 and Mirassol at 1-3-1. You can cut the tension with a butter knife.
Let's not forget the recent skirmishes. Mineiro managed a sweet victory against Botafogo but stumbled a bit with Santos and Grêmio. Mirassol, despite a draw against Juventude, handed a jaw-dropping 4-1 defeat to Grêmio. Way to make a statement, lads.
Despite Mineiro being slightly favored, their recent inability to convince entirely combined with Mirassol's impressive showing against Grêmio makes this an even more thrilling contest. So, sit on the edge of your seats, sports fans. This one's a cracker.
Albert’s Prediction: Draw