Once Caldas vs Fluminense: Copa Sudamericana Preview, Kick-off Time & Lineups

In-Depth Analysis

## Background & Context

Fluminense enters the Copa Sudamericana amid internal turmoil. A recent string of poor results, including losing the Carioca state championship final and a defeat in their Brasileirão opener, resulted in the departure of manager Mano Menezes. Marcão steps in as interim coach, tasked with steadying the ship for this crucial continental fixture.

Once Caldas, the 2004 Copa Libertadores champions, return to continental competition after six years. They secured their spot by defeating Millonarios in the preliminary round. Currently sitting mid-table in the Colombian league, they view the Sudamericana as a key focus.

## Team News & Predicted Lineups

**Once Caldas:** Coach Hernan Darío Herrera benefits from having his entire squad available. Expect a lineup similar to recent domestic matches. *Predicted Once Caldas XI:* James Aguirre; Juan David Cuesta, Jorge Cardona, Jerson Malagon, Juan Pablo Patiño; Iván Rojas, Mateo García; Jefry Zapata, Alejandro García, Michael Barrios; Dayro Moreno.

**Fluminense:** Marcão faces significant selection challenges due to injuries. Otávio, Ganso, Riquelme, Isaque, and Gabriel Fuentes are confirmed out, while Renato Augusto is still transitioning back. Lack of training time means the tactical structure might resemble that used under Menezes. *Predicted Fluminense XI:* Fábio; Guga (or Samuel Xavier), Ignácio, Thiago Silva, Renê; Hércules (or Bernal), Martinelli, Lima (or Lezcano); Arias, Canobbio, Cano.

## Cano vs His Favourite Victim

Fluminense striker Germán Cano has an exceptional personal record against Once Caldas, scoring 11 goals in 13 appearances while playing for Deportivo Pereira and Independiente Medellín. This ties Once Caldas with Millonarios as the teams he has scored most against in his career. However, Cano's personal win record in these matches is less impressive (2 wins, 5 draws, 6 losses), highlighting that his goals haven't always translated to team success against this opponent.

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FAQ

Takeaways

• Fluminense desperately needs a win to boost morale after recent poor form and a managerial change.
• Once Caldas will be tough opponents at home with a full squad available.
• Germán Cano's incredible scoring record against Once Caldas makes him the key player to watch, but his history shows goals don't guarantee victory against them.
• As the first group game, the result could significantly impact both teams' Sudamericana aspirations.

Discussion

Can Fluminense overcome their recent form and injuries to secure an away win? Will Cano add to his tally against his favourite opponent? Let us know your predictions in the comments!

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