Avai vs Chapecoense on January 22
The stage is set for an enthralling encounter in the Catarinense tournament as Avai hosts Chapecoense on January 22. Both teams, hailing from the state of Santa Catarina, will clash at the Estádio da Ressacada, with kickoff scheduled for 19:00. For Avai, this is a chance to consolidate their position in the upper echelons of the table, while Chapecoense, ever the underdogs, will be looking to prove themselves in a fiercely competitive league. With both sides eyeing a strong finish to their respective campaigns, expect a tactical battle with plenty of passion, skill, and drama. Weather forecasts predict a mild evening, but the intensity of the match will undoubtedly heat up on the pitch.
Avai: Tactical Approach and Current Form
Avai's recent form has been solid, with four wins and one loss in their last five matches. The team has shown excellent organization, blending defensive resilience with an efficient attacking setup. Under coach Eduardo Barroca, Avai typically sets up in a 4-3-3 formation, with a compact defense and a midfield that can both control possession and transition quickly into attack. In their most recent win, a 2-1 victory over Brusque, Avai demonstrated a high pressing game that stifled their opponents' build-up play. They average 53% possession, but their real strength lies in their counter-attacking ability, with quick transitions through the wide players.
Key statistics include an impressive 84% pass accuracy in the final third, and an average of 10 successful pressing actions per match. Their wingers, often tasked with stretching the opposition's defense, are pivotal to their success. The central midfield pairing of Lourenço and Gabriel, who have been in great form, will be essential in breaking up Chapecoense's attacks and distributing the ball quickly to the wide areas.
In terms of injuries, Avai's defense has been bolstered by the return of their experienced center-back, Betão, who has missed some matches due to a minor knock. His presence will be crucial in dealing with Chapecoense's aerial threat. However, Avai will be without their forward, Jonathan, who is serving a one-match suspension after a red card in the previous round.
Chapecoense: Tactical Approach and Current Form
Chapecoense enters this match with a less favorable recent record, managing only two wins and three losses in their last five outings. However, they have shown moments of brilliance, particularly in their 3-0 triumph over Figueirense, where they deployed a well-drilled 4-2-3-1 formation. The team has been heavily reliant on their solid defensive structure and quick counter-attacks. Their midfield, led by veteran playmaker Bruno Silva, is the engine of the team, ensuring that the side remains compact defensively while launching rapid breaks. Chapecoense averages 47% possession but excels in creating high-quality chances, with an xG (expected goals) average of 1.3 per match, slightly higher than Avai’s 1.1.
Chapecoense's defensive setup has been key to their performances this season. With a high number of tackles and interceptions (averaging 24 defensive actions per game), they have been able to neutralize the attacking threats of stronger sides. Their right-back, Alan Ruschel, is crucial in both defensive duties and overlapping runs, providing width and support for the attack. However, Chapecoense has struggled with finishing, having converted only 10% of their chances in their last five games. If this inefficiency continues, they could be in trouble against a team like Avai that punishes mistakes.
Chapecoense will miss the services of central defender Paepe, who is suspended due to accumulation of yellow cards. This could lead to a reshuffling in the defense, with younger players needing to step up. The lack of defensive stability might prove costly against a sharp Avai attack.
Head-to-Head: History and Psychology
The recent history between Avai and Chapecoense has been fairly balanced, with each side claiming two wins in their last five encounters. However, when the teams met earlier in the season, Avai triumphed 1-0 in a hard-fought battle. That victory marked a shift in their fortunes after a rocky start to the campaign. Historically, matches between these two teams have been tightly contested, often decided by the smallest of margins, such as a set-piece goal or a moment of individual brilliance. This trend is likely to continue, with both sides understanding the significance of this local rivalry.
Psychologically, Avai will feel the pressure of being the favorites, with home advantage and better recent form on their side. On the other hand, Chapecoense, despite their struggles, will approach this match with a chip on their shoulder, knowing that a victory could restore confidence and reaffirm their ability to compete with the division’s stronger sides.
Key Battles and Critical Zones
One of the most intriguing battles will take place on the wings. Avai’s left-winger, Gastón, who has been in scintillating form this season, will face off against Chapecoense’s right-back, Alan Ruschel. Gastón’s pace and dribbling skills will put pressure on Ruschel, forcing him into defensive positions. If Gastón can beat his man and deliver dangerous crosses into the box, Avai will have a significant edge in attack.
Another critical battle will be in the midfield, where the central duo of Lourenço and Gabriel for Avai will lock horns with Chapecoense’s Bruno Silva and Patrick. The ability of Avai’s midfield to win the ball back and control the tempo of the game will be vital. If Chapecoense can disrupt Avai’s passing rhythm, they could exploit the space left in the final third.
Lastly, set-pieces could play a key role in this match. Both teams have been dangerous from corners and free-kicks, with Avai averaging 5.3 corners per match, and Chapecoense not far behind at 4.9. With players like Betão in the air for Avai and Paepe’s absence for Chapecoense, this could be a decisive factor.
Match Scenario and Prediction
This match is likely to be a tactical battle, with Avai controlling possession and pressing high, while Chapecoense sits deep and looks to break quickly. Avai will dominate the ball, but Chapecoense’s defense will be hard to break down. The key for Avai will be to exploit the wide areas and deliver quality crosses into the box, particularly with Gastón’s pace. Chapecoense will have to be clinical in transition, using their counter-attacks to make the most of their few chances.
Prediction: Avai 2-1 Chapecoense. The game will likely be tight, but Avai’s superior attacking quality and home advantage should see them edge out a victory. Expect at least one goal from a set-piece, and keep an eye on the wingers for both teams as they look to make an impact in the final third.
Final Thoughts
This match will test Avai’s ability to break down a disciplined defense, while Chapecoense will need to show clinical finishing to capitalize on their limited chances. With a finely poised tactical battle on the cards, the result could hinge on the efficiency of the wingers and the influence of the midfielders. Can Avai maintain their momentum, or will Chapecoense’s resolute defense stifle the home side’s attacking ambitions? One thing is certain: the Estádio da Ressacada will be buzzing with anticipation as these two sides go head-to-head in what promises to be a thrilling encounter.
