Palmeiras vs Athletico-PR Prediction: The champion is back

The clash between the top two teams in the Brasileirão was probably one of the most spectacular football matches in recent years. Leader Botafogo, six points ahead of Palmeiras before the game, was leading 3-0 at half-time after an overwhelming first half. At the break, the provisional lead was nine points. However, in the second half, reigning champion Palmeiras came out on top and reduced the gap through Endrick, a youngster who has already signed for Real Madrid. Botafogo defender Adryelson was sent off in the 76th minute to complicate the Cariocas' task further, but shortly afterward, the referee awarded Botafogo a penalty. Wéverton saved the shot from Tiquinho Soares, the tournament's top scorer, and almost immediately after, Endrick scored again for Palmeiras. 3-2! From then on, the Paulistas massacred the home team, scoring 3-3 and 3-4 in the 89th and 99th minutes in a crazy match. The champion came back at the right time to be in a position to retain the title.

After the resounding victory at the Nilton Santos, the dream of the title that had long since gone up in smoke returned to the players' minds. Anyone who has won the game of the year in Brazil after trailing 3-0 at half-time can do anything. The players' confidence now seems unshakeable, and victory against Athletico Paranaense looks inevitable for the Verdão fans. The Paulistas will have great support from their fans as they look to win the league. Botafogo showed fear of Palmeiras, and that could have been fatal for the Cariocas.

The Hurricane didn't play its best game in the draw at home to São Paulo. The Paranaenses now occupy seventh place, and if the team aims to reach at least sixth place, which opens up access to the Copa Libertadores qualifying round, they'll need to do even better. This is undoubtedly the worst moment to play against Palmeiras players, who are hyper-confident, but in football, anything is possible, as we saw in the last game of the Verdão.

It will be a surprise if Palmeiras fails to win this game after its classy display in the win over Botafogo. The team showed unbelievable mental strength, and at this stage, it seems that the Paulistas will overcome any adversity that arises. I'm backing Palmeiras to win.