RIO DE JANEIRO (Interstat) — A surging Mirassol FC looks to continue its improbable climb up the Serie A table when it visits CR Vasco da Gama on Tuesday.

The matchup at Vasco’s São Januário stadium pits a Mirassol (8-3-5) side that has won five of its last eight league contests against a Vasco da Gama club seeking consistency in the final stretch of the Brazilian top-flight season.

Mirassol, however, enters on the heels of a 2-0 away loss to EC Vitoria this past Saturday, a result that snapped a three-match unbeaten streak. Prior to that defeat, Mirassol’s form was formidable, including a 3-0 rout of Ceara SC and a stunning 2-1 victory over powerhouse Palmeiras earlier this month.

Vasco da Gama’s recent form is unclear, but the historic Rio club will have the advantage of playing on its home pitch. The game is critical for both sides as they navigate a crowded league schedule. According to the Interstat game simulator, Mirassol is projected to earn a narrow 1-0 victory.

Following Tuesday’s contest, Mirassol will host Flamengo on Dec. 7 in another difficult test. Vasco da Gama is scheduled to travel to face CA Mineiro on the same date.