Bahia vs Fortaleza Prediction: The Baianos want to keep dreaming

Bahia has been the big surprise of this early stage of the Brasileirão. The team coached by former goalkeeper Rogério Ceni deserves to share the lead in the Série A with Flamengo. The next opponent is a tough nut to crack. Fortaleza has become a solid team in recent years under the guidance of Argentinian Pablo Vojvoda. The match between the two Northeast teams promises to be exciting.

The Steel Squadron secured a precious draw at the Arena MRV, Atlético-MG's stadium. The Miners are a strong team but couldn't overcome Bahia, who is going through a moment of great confidence. Hulk scored in the 62nd minute from a fabulous direct free kick, but the Baianos reacted eight minutes later with a great goal from outside the area from Ademir, which set up the final result. The Tricolor showed again that it is not intimidated by more powerful clubs. Against Fortaleza, Bahia's loyal fans will try to push their team to another victory.

The Lion won the Copa do Nordeste by beating CRB in the final on penalty kicks. It was the third time that Fortaleza won Brazil's biggest regional tournament. Bahia and Vitória, with four trophies each, are the clubs that have won the competition the most times. In the Brasileirão, Fortaleza is in 11th place but has yet to lose. The Cearenses have won two matches and drawn four but have a game in hand. The team has also qualified for the Round of 16 of the Copa Sudamericana, so confidence is high in the Lion's kingdom.

Although Bahia is at the top of the table, it doesn't mean this home game will be easy. Fortaleza hasn't lost in the six games it has played in the Série A, always showing a solid collective with a tactical discipline that is above average. The Baianos' midfield is very creative, but they will need patience to find spaces in the Cearense defense. Bahia can win, but a draw wouldn't be surprising. I'm betting on a Double Chance in favor of the home team, with a maximum of three goals scored in the match.