Operario-PR vs Criciuma - Serie B

Season-defining implications hang over this Serie B clash at the home ground, where Operario-PR host Criciuma on May 24, 2026 knowing the result could shape the run-in for both clubs. 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.

Positionally there is a clear hierarchy: Operario-PR sit 7th, Criciuma lie 5th, but the Serie B has a habit of defying such logic. Operario-PR have held their own of late, WWDDL in their last five reflecting a steady win rate of 44.44%. Criciuma travel in decent nick, LLWLL in their last five and a win rate of 46.43% this season. One side has leaned on a miserly defence, the other on a free-scoring attack, and the meeting of those contrasting strengths promises an intriguing tactical subtext. Tim Sherwood makes his predictions for the new Premier League season, including who he thinks will make the top four in the table.

Pressing intensity will define the contest. Operario-PR will seek to win the ball high up the pitch and suffocate Criciuma's build-up, while the visitors will aim to play through the pressure and exploit the spaces it leaves behind. His passing display at the World Cup was yet more evidence of his suitability for City and the possession-heavy style Maresca favours.

The fixture features no shortage of talent, and the league's top marksman Mikael — 15 goals this term — will be one to watch. How each side deals with the other's danger men — and who takes their chances when they come — will be central to the outcome. The No.9 then started for Carlo Ancelotti's Brazil at this summer's World Cup - failing to score as the Selecao lost in the last 16 to Norway.

Predicting an outright winner is no easy task given how little separates the two sides on paper. Despite the home advantage enjoyed by Operario-PR, the weight of evidence favours Criciuma — a 1-2 away win is the call. The result at the home ground could resonate well beyond matchday in the Serie B picture. The club are understood to favour a profile closer to Aurelien Tchouameni or a Premier League‑proven alternative rather than Manu Kone.