Bahia vs Vasco da Gama Prediction: Bahia wants to stay in the top 4

Bahia reacted well to its heartbreaking last-minute defeat to Flamengo in Round 10. Against Cruzeiro, the Baianos won 4-1 and showed that it's not by accident that they're in third place. Some of Bahia's more pessimistic fans probably thought the dream spell was over when Cruzeiro opened the scoring, but in the end, the crowd at the Arena Fonte Nova celebrated with joy.

The Tricolor Baiano has not lost for 18 games at home and could extend the streak against Vasco da Gama. The Cariocas won their last game, which is true, but Bahia is superior in every aspect. However, in the Brasileirão, it is always necessary to be alert, and physical condition often levels the gap between a strong and a weaker team. Bahia is in third place, two points behind Palmeiras and three points behind Flamengo, and still has every reason to dream of playing in the Copa Libertadores next year.

Álvaro Pacheco's departure from the team's helm brought immediate effects as the Cariocas surprisingly beat São Paulo 4-1. Vasco is now one point above the relegation zone. It remains to be seen whether the improvement will continue because the Cruzmaltino showed a lot of deficiencies in most of the games, having the worst defense in the Brasileirão with 22 goals conceded. Rafael Paiva has taken charge of the team on an interim basis for the second time this season and will only be able to continue as head coach with victories. If that doesn't happen, Vasco will probably decide to sign a new coach.

Both teams won their games 4-1, but while Bahia confirmed its fine season, Vasco pulled off a surprise by beating São Paulo. The Baianos are very strong at home, where they haven't lost for 18 games, thanks to the warm support of their fans. Their third place is well deserved, given the quality of their football. Bahia is more likely to win again than Vasco, so I'm betting on the victory of the Tricolor Baiano.