Atlético-MG vs Vitória Prediction: The Miners are motivated

Atlético Mineiro will host Vitória after beating Vasco da Gama in the first leg of the Copa do Brasil semi-finals. The league isn't going well for Atlético, but the team is close to two finals, which motivates players and fans. The Rooster will also be fighting for a place in the Copa Libertadores final with River Plate and dreams of lifting the trophy just as it did in 2013.

The game with Vasco didn't start well, as Philippe Coutinho opened the scoring for the Cariocas in the 14th minute. Milito's team seems to be gradually returning to the level displayed at the start of the season and began to put pressure on Vasco near its penalty area. Arana and Paulinho turned the result around just before half-time with goals in the 38th and 44th minutes. The game was less exciting in the second half, with the Miners defending their lead effectively. In the Brasileirão, Atlético is in 10th place with 36 points and two games in hand. The club is underachieving in the Série A, but it will not be a bad season if Atlético wins the Copa do Brasil or the Copa Libertadores. Against Vitória, only three points matter before the international break.

The Baianos lost 3-1 to Inter in Porto Alegre but fought until the end. Inter is in great form, so the defeat wasn't a surprise. The Gaúchos scored just before half-time through Alan Patrik from a penalty, and then Wesley scored the second goal at the start of the second half. The game seemed decided, but Vitória's captain, Wagner Leonardo, reduced the deficit with a header. The Lion tried to equalize, but Internacional scored a third goal in the 92nd minute, again by Wesley. Carpini's team remains one place above the relegation zone, and the fight will likely continue until the last matchday.

After a lackluster spell, Atlético entered the final phase of the season with a chance of winning two titles. The Miners are unlikely to do anything significant in the Brasileirão, but being in the semi-finals of the Copa Libertadores and Copa do Brasil motivates the players and fans. At home, the Rooster is the clear favorite against Vitória. I'm backing Atlético to win with a maximum of four goals scored.