Flamengo vs Vasco da Gama Prediction: There's a Classic of the Millions at the Maracanã

For many, this is considered the biggest derby in Rio de Janeiro since these clubs have the most fans in the city, hence the name Clássico dos Milhões. The "Fla-Flu," a term coined by journalist Mário Filho, whose name was immortalized in the official naming of the Maracanã, helped to popularize the match between Flamengo and Fluminense. Still, for most Cariocas, the big derby in the Marvelous City is the one that will be played in this round of the Brasileirão.

Flamengo

This will be Tite's first Carioca derby as Flamengo manager. The former Brazil coach debuted in the last round with a 2-0 win over Cruzeiro at the Miineirão. Flamengo climbed to third place in the table with 47 points, two points behind second-placed RB Bragantino and 11 behind rival Botafogo, who is on top of the Série A. Against Vasco da Gama, fans expect the Vulture to show that it is the stronger team despite the Cruzmaltino's good form. Flamengo has the better players, but Vasco da Gama has been playing with a lot of soul to avoid relegation to the Série B.

Vasco da Gama

The Hill's Giant climbed back out of the relegation zone with a home win against Fortaleza. Although the team is tied with the same 30 points as Santos and Goiás, both in a relegation position, Vasco is out of the Z4 due to the tiebreaker criteria. Payet scored the match's only goal, which was enough to beat the Cearenses, finalists in the Copa Sudamericana. Once again, Ramón Díaz's team showed its ability to fight and suffer, and if it continues like this, it could escape relegation. The fans' support has also been vital in the Cruzmaltino's victories. In this derby, a point for Vasco would be welcome. Although the quality of Vasco da Gama's players is inferior to Flamengo's, it's compensated for by the sheer amount of work they put in during the game.

Expert Betting Tips

The Scarlet-Black did well in the last game against Cruzeiro at the Mineirão, showing promising signs in Tite's debut in charge. Vasco Gama also won in the last round, impressing with its players' spirit of sacrifice. Flamengo has a better chance of winning, although it's not out of the question that Vasco could snatch a draw. I'm, therefore, betting on a Double Chance for Flamengo with a maximum of three goals in the game.