Fluminense vs Independiente Rivadavia

With Independiente Rivadavia sitting top of Libertadores Group C after a perfect opening-round win over Bolívar, this Maracanã clash carries real early-season weight. Fluminense drew 0-0 in their opener against Deportivo La Guaira and badly need three points — a second slip could leave them chasing the group from the off. Rivadavia arrive in Rio on a five-match winning run, driven by striker Fabrizio Sartori (five goals this season) and the creative edge of winger Sebastián Villa (five assists). Fluminense hold a remarkable 12-match unbeaten run at the Maracanã in Libertadores play, but their preparations have been badly disrupted — creative hub Luciano Acosta (knee) and veteran striker Germán Cano are both ruled out. With attacking options thinned, Flu will lean heavily on Kevin Serna to provide the spark up front. The home record remains an imposing factor, but expect a cagey, low-scoring affair at the famous old stadium. Our prediction: 1-0