Grêmio host Athletico in the 33rd round of the Brasileirão

Grêmio Chase Reversal After Breaking Winless Drought

Grêmio enter the fixture lifted by Monday’s first away win of the league season, a 1-0 victory against Coritiba at Couto Pereira. That result marked Renato Portaluppi’s first win since returning to the club, bringing an end to a seven-match winless run. Sitting 17th in the standings with 34 points, Grêmio require a victory to escape the relegation zone. Portaluppi faces tactical decisions regarding his defensive setup, specifically whether to deploy three centre-backs or revert to a conventional back two. Kannemann returns to availability following a suspension, while Diego Caito deals with an injury that likely hands a starting spot to João Pedro. Meanwhile, Pavon experienced muscle pain and is expected to miss the encounter.

Athletico Defend G-4 Standing Amid Away Consistency

Athletico arrive aiming to protect their position inside the G-4 while halting a two-match winless sequence that includes a defeat against Palmeiras followed by a draw with Vitória. Their defensive resilience away from home underpins their confidence, having suffered only a single loss across their last nine league trips. Top scorer Kevin Viveros travelled with the squad while continuing his recovery from knee pain and will undergo a final fitness assessment before kick-off. Arthur Dias, Dantas, Benavídez, and Vargas all return from the medical room, though suspensions rule out both Jadson and Gilberto Moraes after accumulating three yellow cards.

Grêmio and Athletico Prepare Probable Starting Lineups

Both managers are managing squad fitness and suspensions ahead of the crucial Thursday night fixture in Porto Alegre. Grêmio’s probable starting eleven features Weverton, Gustavo Martins, Wallace, and Kannemann or Balbuena in defense, alongside João Pedro, Villasanti, Noriega, and Marlon. Enamorado, Carlos Vinicius, and Amuzu complete the projected attacking setup.

Athletico’s probable side includes Mycael in goal, backed by Arthur Dias, Aguirre, and Lucas Esquivel. Benavídez or Gilberto Junior will partner Juan Portilla, Luiz Gustavo, and Mendoza in midfield, with Leozinho, Kevin Viveros or Rivaldo, and João Cruz anticipated to lead the attack.