Santos — Fluminense : Match Preview and Prediction for August 31,2025

Santos’ Recent Form and Coaching Change

A recent string of two consecutive defeats, starting with a humiliating 0-6 loss to Vasco da Gama, followed by a 0-2 defeat against Bahia, has culminated in a predictable outcome: the dismissal of head coach Kleber Xavier. The team is now under the guidance of Argentinian Juan Pablo Vojvoda, for whom this upcoming match will mark his debut.

Deep Crisis and Defensive Woes

The team finds itself in a profound crisis, occupying the 15th spot in the league table, merely two points clear of the relegation zone – a stark reality for Santos. Across 20 matches, the team has suffered 11 losses, ranking them among the worst in the league. Their defense is visibly fractured, conceding 12 goals in the last five rounds and a staggering 20 over the past ten.

Player Concerns and Injury List

While Neymar’s return to the squad is anticipated, his current form remains questionable. The player was recently diagnosed with a thigh edema, and legendary Zico even publicly stated that a playing career might not be Neymar’s top priority. Adding to their troubles, forward Guilherme was sidelined for the previous match due to emotional distress following fan criticism. Furthermore, defender Joao Basso and midfielder Willian Arao remain on the injury list.

Home Ground Vulnerability

The home stadium has offered little solace or fortress-like protection for Santos. In nine home fixtures, they have secured only three victories. Moreover, in six of these nine matches, the team managed to score less than one goal. All these factors paint a picture of a squad in disarray, facing a formidable opponent.

Fluminense’s Solid Position and Recent Matches

Fluminense approaches this encounter from a more comfortable ninth-place standing in the league table, which notably sets them apart from their struggling opponents. Although the team has experienced two recent losses, these setbacks should be viewed in proper context. A narrow 0-1 away defeat to Bahia in the Brazilian Cup saw head coach Renato Gaucho assert that his squad had, in fact, outplayed their rivals.

Squad Depth and Key Player Return

The Rio de Janeiro-based club boasts sufficient squad depth to manage these absences effectively. While Canobbio and Fuentes are suspended, and Samuel Xavier is injured, the midfield offers viable alternatives for the loaned Nonato from Santos – such as the experienced Ganso or recent acquisition Luciano Acosta, who has already found the net. A crucial factor is the full recovery of key defender Thiago Silva.

Potent Away Attack

Fluminense’s attacking prowess truly shines when playing away from home. The team leads the league in the number of away matches where they scored more than 1.5 goals, achieving this feat in nine out of ten games. Additionally, in five of their ten away fixtures, Fluminense players scored at least twice, highlighting their significant offensive potential.