Avai vs Novorizontino - Serie B

When Avai and Novorizontino clash at the home ground on May 3, 2026, the stakes extend well beyond a single result — this is a Serie B fixture that carries real weight for both clubs. The left-back was taken off in the final minutes against Everton with cramp, and was not risked for the Champions League clash vs Sabah on Thursday.

The standings add context to the occasion — Avai occupying 17th, Novorizontino perched in 1st — and the gap between them shapes the narrative. The hosts have struggled for consistency, LLLWW in their last five pointing to a win rate of 29.63%. The visitors have been picking up results steadily, DWWWW over their last five with a campaign win rate of 50%. Where Avai have built their campaign on solidity, Novorizontino have often chased flair, and that fundamental difference should make for compelling viewing. Tim Sherwood makes his predictions for the new Premier League season, including who he thinks will make the top four in the table.

Set-piece efficiency could prove the difference on the night. Both Avai and Novorizontino have invested time in dead-ball situations this season, and a single corner or free-kick may settle it. In attack, Brazilian forward Kaua Elias has emerged as a name of interest, with United scouts watching the Shakhtar Donetsk striker after his hat‑trick against Kudrivka on Monday.

The fixture boasts genuine star quality. With Mikael topping the Serie B scoring charts at 15 goals, the stage is set for the kind of individual brilliance that can swing a contest. The wide areas will be a key battleground, with full-backs and wingers on either side capable of swinging the contest one way or the other. Tottenham signed the former Brighton star earlier this summer, and De Zerbi has now revealed how he messaged the defender to join the club after Brighton’s match against Everton.

Predictions are tricky when the sides are this evenly matched, and small margins — a moment of quality, a slice of luck — could decide it either way. Despite the home advantage enjoyed by Avai, the weight of evidence favours Novorizontino — a 1-2 away win is the call. With the standings tight and form on the line, this is a fixture neither side will want to lose. Important qualities given that Bournemouth will expect him to be proactive.