Criciuma vs Atletico Goianiense - Serie B

All eyes turn to the home ground on May 17, 2026 as Criciuma welcome Atletico Goianiense in a Serie B encounter that promises tension, intrigue and no shortage of subplot. Jorge Salinas is of interest to Manchester United(Image: 2024 Soccrates Images B.V.) United are one of several Premier League clubs weighing up whether to meet Bologna’s €25m (£21.7m) valuation for Jhon Lucumi, according to Corriere di Bologna.

Criciuma head into the contest positioned 5th in the Serie B standings, while Atletico Goianiense arrive sitting 6th. The hosts have been steady if unspectacular, LLWLL in their last five reflecting a win rate of 46.43%. The visitors have been a steady presence on the road, WWDWW in their last five and a campaign win rate of 42.86%. Where Criciuma have built their campaign on solidity, Atletico Goianiense have often chased flair, and that fundamental difference should make for compelling viewing. Despite his age, and recent injury record, Rodri remains the most complete central midfielder to have operated in the Premier League over the past five years.

How the two sides approach the contest strategically will be key. Criciuma will want to control proceedings in front of their own supporters, while Atletico Goianiense will back themselves to cause problems on the break. Schalke had only 17 per cent of the possession but, having visited the club to interview their charismatic coach Miron Muslic, that is hardly a surprise.

With Mikael leading the league's scoring charts at 15 goals, the contest is unlikely to be short of attacking intent. Set-piece specialists and aerial threats on both sides mean dead-ball situations could carry outsized importance. Their 2-1 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Super Cup featured breakout performances by 17-year-old striker Brian Madjo striker on debut and 19-year-old winger George Hemmings.

The fixture has the feel of a coin-flip, and picking a winner with any conviction would require a braver pundit than most. On balance, Criciuma look well-placed to claim all three points, and a 2-1 home win would not come as a surprise. With the standings tight and form on the line, this is a fixture neither side will want to lose. Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player Liverpool's midfield wasn't great last year but I expect Florian Wirtz to have a better season, 100 per cent.