São Paulo vs Flamengo Prediction: Flamengo looking to secure a top 4 finish

São Paulo and Flamengo meet in the final round for an interstate classic that could have more implications for the Cariocas than the Paulistas. Flamengo is in third place, three points behind Palmeiras, but with a goal difference of 16 goals well below that of the leader, the title is no longer possible. Still, with Botafogo in fifth place, two points behind Tite's team, the club must secure a place in the top four to qualify directly for the Copa Libertadores group stage.

São Paulo has already qualified for the Copa Libertadores, having won the Copa do Brasil precisely against Flamengo, its opponent in the final. In the Brasileirão, the Tricolor Paulista has performed modestly and is in 11th place. In the last round, the Paulistas almost drew against second-placed Atlético Mineiro, conceding a goal in the 94th minute. The team is strong at home and will be looking to maintain its unbeaten streak against Flamengo for the fourth time this season.

The Scarlet-Black beat Cuiabá 2-1 at the Maracanã, but with Palmeiras' win over Fluminense, its title dream is over. The team has never shown great regularity in the competition, although, in truth, that's hard to achieve in the Brasileirão. We have seen a strong collective from Flamengo for a few times. The arrival of Tite improved the Cariocas' performance, and they even defeated Palmeiras, which will probably be the champion, by 3-0. Four rounds later, in the decisive game against Atlético Mineiro, the Vulture failed, losing 3-0 at the Maracanã. Flamengo hasn't beaten São Paulo in the three times the two sides have met this year, including the cup final, so that could be something to consider.

I'm leaning towards a draw, although Flamengo might need a win if Botafogo beats Internacional. São Paulo has always been a tough opponent for the Cariocas this year, and I see no reason why that won't happen again.