Preview: Flamengo vs. Atletico Goianiense - prediction, team news, form guide

Flamengo welcome Atletico Goianiense to Estadio da Gavea on Saturday evening on the back of suffering two straight defeats in Brazil's top flight.

However, the visitors head into this encounter having failed to win any of their last four outings in Serie A.

Match preview

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Having failed to win any of their last three league fixtures, Flamengo boss Rogerio Ceni will feel that his side are fortunate to still sit in third position in the table.

Their two most recent defeats have been at the hands of Sao Paulo and Atletico Mineiro, who are placed either side of them, and conceding eight goals has not helped their goal difference.

Nevertheless, still just one point adrift of leaders Internacional, Ceni will be confident that his team can turn things around against opponents who sit well down the standings.

Despite their recent setbacks, Fiorentina loanee Pedro has maintained his excellent form, contributing four goals from his last five appearances in all competitions.

As far as Atletico Gioaniense are concerned, they will head into this weekend's encounter having failed to post a victory in a month.

Six matches have passed since they edged out Santos on away territory, a run which has resulted in the club dropping down to 14th position.

Just four goals have been scored during that sequence of games, although interim boss Eduardo Souza will have been encouraged by their 1-1 draw at home to Corinthians last week.

Getting on the scoresheet has proven to be a problem all season, with Renato Kayzer remaining as the club's top goalscorer despite leaving in September.

Flamengo Brasileiro form: WDWDLL Flamengo form (all competitions): DWLWLL

Atletico Goianiense Brasileiro form: WWDLLD Atletico Goianiense form (all competitions): DLLLLD

Team News

Flamengo

Out: Rodrigo Caio (knee)

We say: Flamengo 2-0 Atletico Goianiense

Given their recent results, we do not expect either side to be firing on all cylinders during this contest. However, Flamengo undoubtedly possess an extra bit of class, and that is likely to prove decisive at the weekend.

Top betting tip

Our expert tipster partners at Sporita.com are predicting under 3.5 goals in this match. Click here to find out what else they are predicting for this game and for more of their tried-and-tested football tips.Under 3.5:data