Grêmio have put the finishing touches on their preparations for this Sunday's blockbuster Brasileirão clash against Flamengo—and fans can expect a few surprises in the starting XI.
The Matchday 15 showdown kicks off at 7:30 p.m. at the Grêmio Arena, with both sides hungry for points in the league table. After a commanding 3-0 victory over Deportivo Riestra in the Copa Sudamericana, head coach Luis Castro is ringing in two key changes to keep the momentum rolling.
In defense, Balbuena steps in for Wagner Leonardo, adding a fresh layer of steel to the backline. Meanwhile, midfield sees Noriega replace Willian, bringing energy and creativity to the engine room.
Here's how Grêmio are likely to line up: Weverton between the posts; a defensive trio of Balbuena, Gustavo Martins, and Viery; wing-backs Pavón and Pedro Gabriel; a midfield core of Noriega, Pérez, and Gabriel Mec; and the attacking duo of Amuzu and Carlos Vinícius leading the charge.
