Bahia vs Cruzeiro Prediction: Both teams are strong this year

This match features the fifth and sixth-placed teams in the Brasileirão. Bahia and Cruzeiro have 18 and 17 points, respectively, but the Miners have a game in hand. The performance of both sides has risen considerably compared to last season. The Série A hasn't even completed its first third, it's true, and a lot will still happen, but what the Tricolor Baiano and the Fox have shown so far leaves their fans optimistic.

Rogério Ceni's men went to the Maracanã to fight for the top spot. The teams were level on 18 points, and with Botafogo's draw, whoever won the match would jump into the top spot. The Cariocas' higher experience in big games made the difference, and Flamengo won 2-1 with a header from David Luís in the 94th minute after a corner kick. Thanks to its superb midfield, Bahia had 66% ball possession but didn't create many chances. The team from Salvador reacted well to Gerson's goal in the 24th minute, equalizing through Everaldo 11 minutes later. However, in the second half, despite the Baianos controlling the game, Flamengo was more dangerous. Bahia now hosts Cruzeiro and wants to win to stay in the upper positions.

The Belo Horizonte side hosted and beat Fluminense, which is going through a results crisis. Cruzeiro took advantage of the Cariocas' troubled moment and won 2-0 thanks to a solid defensive performance and superb finishing. The Fox didn't mind conceding possession to its opponent, even though it was playing at home, and played objectively, unlike Fernando Diniz's team. William was the standout player after scoring in the 41st minute from the penalty spot and in the 93rd minute. The Miners now have a tricky trip to Salvador, where they will try to at least secure a point, most likely by letting Bahia control the ball and playing closed defense.

Both teams are doing well, although Bahia is playing more attractive football. Bahia is the favorite for this match since it has won all four of its previous home games. Still, Cruzeiro has only lost two games, against São Paulo and Atlético Mineiro, which indicates difficulties for the Baianos. I'm betting that the home side will not lose the game, with a maximum of three goals scored, preventing a possible 0-0 or 1-1 draw.