Michaelson’s picks

Today’s mouth-watering clash in the Brazilian Serie A sees the division’s two most successful clubs going up against each other at the Estadio Vila Belmiro. Santos have won the top flight eight times, while their opponent, Palmeiras, have claimed it nine times.

The hosts, Santos, are traditionally a big club in Brazil and they are expected to do well season upon season. However, it seems not be to the case as things stand for the Sao Paulo-based side. Santos are sitting on an unusual 15th position in Brazil’s Serie A.

Palmeiras, on the other hand, are in search for their second title in two years, having won it in 2016. however, they trail log leaders Flamengo RJ by a dozen points and they will need all three points if they are to catch Flamengo. Nonetheless, given their recent form of two draws, two wins and a loss in their last five outings, I am convinced that Roger Machado’s men will do enough to edge Santos in their own backyard today. Pool Name: S6 V1 P1 M1: Chapecoense v Bahia. A share of spoils. Tip: Draw = 2. M2: Cruzeiro v America Mineiro. Home side will cruise to victory. Tip: Win = 1. M3: Santos v Palmeiras. Previewed above. All points for the visitors. Tip: Win = 3. M4: Vasco da Gama v Fluminense FC. Mid-table battle to finish in a draw. Tip: Draw = 2. M5: Atletico Paranaense v Internacional. Easy win for Inter. Tip: Win = 3. M6: Rampla Juniors v Independiente Santa Fe. Juniors to emerge supreme.

Tip: Win = 1.