Bahia vs São Paulo Prediction: Fight for sixth place

An intense game between Bahia and São Paulo is expected, with two teams separated by five points and fighting to finish in the G6. The sixth place will grant a place in the Copa Libertadores qualifying rounds. Still, more places could open up as Botafogo could win the legendary competition and Cruzeiro could lift the Copa Sudamericana trophy. São Paulo is sixth, and Bahia is seventh, which means the home team could get closer to its opponent.

The Tricolor Baiano lost 3-2 away to Vasco da Gama, thanks to a poor start to the game. In the 32nd minute, Bahia was already 3-0 down after a disastrous performance from Rogério Ceni's team. The Salvador club reacted and almost tied the game, but Vasco secured the win. Bahia started the league well and reached the top of the table, but its performances have declined, especially in the second half of the season. The Baianos haven't won in three games, but if they want to finish in the top six, they must beat São Paulo.

The Tricolor Paulista drew 1-1 in Criciúma, and the result was better than the performance. Like Bahia, São Paulo has also been in better form but maintained some consistency throughout the season. Elimination from the Copa Libertadores was hard to digest, and the players lost motivation as the chance of winning any titles evaporated. Zubeldía's men can still finish in the top four, which would guarantee direct qualification for the Copa Libertadores group stage, but that will require a top-class final stretch. São Paulo has 51 points, and fourth-placed Flamengo has 55.

Bahia is far from the brilliance of the start of the season but still keeps alive the hope of reaching the Copa Libertadores. The Baianos are in seventh place and must reach sixth to qualify for the South American competition. São Paulo currently occupies that position with five points more than Bahia and can play more comfortably. The game should be tight, and for that reason, I'm going for a draw.