Gremio have had a torrid time in Serie A this season. They have taken one point from 12 available to them. The Tricolour are coming off of a 2-2 midweek draw with Santos and now go into Monday’s game seeking a first victory of the campaign.
Fortaleza are third in Serie A with 11 points from 18 available. They missed the chance to keep pace with first-place Red Bull Bragantino, but 2-1 defeat to Flamengo has them three points back of the energy-drink team.
The Lion of the Pici are three games without a win heading into Monday’s game. They need a win versus Gremio to keep pace with the top of the table teams.
Last season, Gremio and Fortaleza drew both meetings with goals at a premium. Their first match played at Gremio’s Arena do Gremio ended in a 1-1 draw.
Fortaleza’s Osvaldo opened the scoring in the first half but the goal was cancelled out by Diego Souza from the penalty spot in the second period. The match also saw two sendings off as both teams finished the match with 10 men.
The Lion of the Pici are three matches unbeaten against Gremio and could run that number to four based on the Tricolour’s awful form.
Fortaleza coach Juan Pablo Vojvoda has four players on the injury list. Defender Matheus Jussa is ruled out until July with a shoulder injury. Forward Isaque is ruled out following a positive COVID test. Midfielder Gustavo Blanco and defender Jackson could return following their own injury issues.
Tiago Nunes has five players that could miss the fixture through injury. Midfielder Maicon is ruled out until July with a calf injury. Goalkeeper Brenno Costa could miss the game following a bout of COVID.
Midfielders Elias Manoel and Alisson are doubts with ankle injuries. Defender Leo Gomes is ruled out.
Gremio striker Diego Souza found the back of the net for the first time this season against Santos in midweek. Nunes will hope Souza can find the back of the net once more.
Fortaleza have scored just two goals in their last three games. Vojvoda needs the side to improve quickly to collect points and keep pace with the teams at the top of the table.
Monday’s game should see Fortaleza keep their unbeaten streak versus Gremio going.
The Lion of Pici should win with Gremio remaining winless this term in the league. Fortaleza could win to nil and improve their defensive record.