Santos vs Cuiabá Prediction: Expect an intense and emotional game

The Brasileirão is highly competitive, with several battles going on from the top to the bottom of the table. While it's still unclear who will be the champion, it's also unclear who will qualify for the Copa Libertadores, and it remains to be seen which teams will be relegated. Santos is involved in the relegation battle, and Cuiabá, who seemed calm in mid-table, could be in trouble if it doesn't pick up points in the coming matches.

The Fish got a precious win in Brasília against Flamengo. The game wasn't played at the Maracanã due to the Copa Libertadores final being held at the legendary stadium, and Santos could take advantage of this. A great shot from outside the area from central defender Joaquim gave Pélé's side the win in the 89th minute. If Santos can avoid relegation, this will be one of the goals most remembered. With this result, the Fish has moved closer to teams like Cuiabá, this round's opponent, and Corinthians, as well as leveling the table with Bahia and Cruzeiro. The gap to the relegation zone is just three points, so this match is crucial for Santos.

The unexpected defeat at home to Vasco da Gama may have spoiled Cuiabá coach António Oliveira's plans a little. After beating leader Botafogo away in Round 30, no one expected the team to lose to the Cruzmaltino at home, but that's what the Brasileirão is all about: a lot of balance between the teams. If the Dourado had won, it would have been much more relaxed. The team from Mato Grosso do Sul is still in a position to qualify for the Copa Sudamericana, but the threat of relegation won't go away.

Cuiabá is not easy to beat away from home thanks to its defensive organization, but Santos, with the support of its fans, is the favorite. Even so, it's going to be a nerve-wracking game for the home team, which could complicate the course of the match if it allows Cuiabá to score first. I'm betting that Marcos Leonardo will score a goal. He's Santos' top scorer and the third-best in the Brasileirão.