Atlético-MG vs Botafogo Prediction: Leader Botafogo faces tough test

Leader of the Brasileirão from the start, Botafogo has built up a comfortable lead over its main competitors, reaching 15 points in round 19. Currently, the advantage over second-placed Palmeiras is ten points due to a decline in performance in recent games. In the last round, Botafogo lost the derby at home to Flamengo, the team's second defeat of the week after being eliminated from the Copa Sudamericana by Defensa y Justicia. The international break came at a good time for Botafogo, which was able to prepare for the match against Atletico-MG with peace of mind. The game is, however, very difficult for the leader, a real test of the team's ability to overcome the bad times in the title race.

Atlético-MG

The Rooster is in ninth place in the Série A and, without causing much excitement, is slowly climbing in the standings. The draw away to Athletico Paranaense in the last round was a positive result, and this clash with Botafogo is, therefore, eagerly awaited by the fans, who now can support their team in a new stadium. At home, the Miners have only the 14th-best record but won the only game played at the Arena MRV against Santos. Hulk won't be able to play due to the yellow card he picked up in the last match and is an important casualty for Scolari.

Expected opening lineup for Atlético-MG

Everson; Mariano, Maurício Lemos, Bruno Fuchs, Guilherme Arana; Battaglia, Otávio, Pedrinho; Pavón, Paulinho, Alan Kardec.

Botafogo

Coach Bruno Lage submitted his resignation after the defeat in the derby against Flamengo. The club's board refused, showing confidence in the work of the Portuguese coach, who so far hasn't convinced the Glorioso fans, anxious to win the Brasileirão. The pressure from the media and the fans is very high in Brazil, making life difficult for the coaches. The team trained calmly during the league break, and a positive reaction to the last defeat is expected. The game is crucial for the leader, as it needs to get back to winning ways.

Expected opening lineup for Botafogo

Perri, Galvão, Adryelson, Vitor Cuesta, Marçal; Marlon Freitas, Tchê Tchê, Eduardo; Segovia, Victor Sá, Diego Costa.

Expert Betting Tips

I'm betting on a Double Chance in favor of Botafogo. In this round of the Brasileirão, the visiting teams have surprisingly won more than the home teams, and I will follow that trend, even though the odds are against Botafogo. The Cariocas will give everything for the three points, and Atlético won't be able to count on Hulk, its most influential player.