Gremio have started the 2021 Serie A season in dreadful form. Tiago Nunes’ team have failed to win any of their opening three games of the season. Gremio have been outscored 5-2 and look nothing like the squad that finished sixth last term.
Santos have been hot and cold in the early part of the Serie A campaign. Fernando Diniz’s team have taken seven points from 12 available to them. The Black and White are coming off of a solid 2-0 home win over Sao Paulo.
Five points now separate Santos from the top of the Serie A table going into the game on Friday. Gremio and Santos met four times in 2020 in league and Copa Libertadores matches.
Santos dominated the series of games picking up two wins and two draws. They outscored Gremio 10-6.
Each game played by these teams last season ended with both teams scoring goals. Based on Gremio’s poor play in the final third this term that trend could come to an end with both teams not scoring.
Nunes has several players suffering from injuries. The good news for the manager is that one or two players may be passed fit for the game. Midfielder Maicon is near full fitness and could play a participate following a calf strain.
Midfielders Elias Manoel and Alisson are both recouping from ankle injuries. They are both nearing a return and could make the squad versus Santos.
Defender Leo Gomes is likely to be back in training with the team this week following a knee injury. Meanwhile, Brenno Costa may miss the fixture following a positive COVID-19 test.
Diniz has five players on the Santos injury list including goalie John (knee), Sandry (ACL), Jobson (ACL), Raniel (Achille’s tendon), and Rafael Longuine (ACL). Raniel and Longuine are both nearing recovery and could make an appearance for the team.
Santos have struggled for goals with just five this season. They are currently led in goals by Marinho with two. Although Santos are yet to win on the road, Gremio’s overall poor form should enable the Black and White to gain a victory.
Last season saw Santos go four games without a loss to Gremio. They should continue that trend with a narrow victory on Friday.
Unlike last season’s matches which saw both teams score, expect Santos to keep an away clean sheet as they win with under 2.5 goals scored.