Bahia vs Corinthians Prediction: The Baianos will try to redeem themselves

Bahia lost its first home game in Round 17. After seven wins in seven games at their home stadium, Rogério Ceni's men were beaten 2-1 by Cuiabá. The Tricolor Baiano dropped to fifth place and now must beat Corinthians to get back on track. 

Everaldo, the team's top scorer, didn't play against the Mato-Grossenses and was sorely missed. The 33-year-old striker is the reference in Bahia's attack, at the moment, a sector with few options. Estupiñan was Everaldo's usual replacement, but he didn't play against Cuiabá either. The Colombian was on loan from Hull City and had to return. With these changes in attack, the Bahians couldn't defeat Cuiabá despite starting the game well ahead. The match with Corinthians is determinant to restore the players' confidence and show that the last round's defeat was just an accident along the way.

Ramón Díaz debuted in charge with a 2-1 win over Criciúma. The Timão was trailing at half-time but managed to turn the result around with goals from Romero in the 54th minute and Cacá in the 62nd minute. The Paulistas can thank their goalkeeper, Hugo Souza, for twice avoiding 2-0 for Criciúma. The experienced Argentine coach saved Vasco da Gama from relegation last season and will try to do the same with Corinthians. A victory in the first game was a good sign. If there's an ideal time to play at the Arena Fonte Nova, it's now, as Bahia lost at home for the first time in the last round.

Bahia had never lost at home until the last round, so it's uncertain how the squad will react. Everaldo is back in the team, and that's good news for coach Rogério Ceni. A week ago, I would have bet on Bahia winning without hesitation, but with the defeat against Cuiabá, plus the arrival of Ramón Díaz to lead Corinthians, the result is more unpredictable. I'm going for a Double Chance in favor of Bahia, with a maximum of three goals scored in the game.