Botafogo vs Athletico-PR Prediction: The leader has a tricky opponent to beat

Nine points separate Botafogo and RB Bragantino, the first and the second in the table, respectively. With eleven games remaining in the Brasileirão, Botafogo continues at the top of the table and is widely considered the favorite to win the title. After a very turbulent four-game period in which the Glorioso only picked up one point, the team seems to have regained confidence following the departure of Bruno Lage. Fortunately for Botafogo, the crisis hasn't been well exploited by opponents such as Palmeiras, Grêmio, and Fluminense, who have also dropped points. Only Bragantino has substantially reduced the gap and seems, at the moment, to be the only team capable of troubling the Cariocas. Athletico Paranense is a tough opponent and feels confident after its win at the Grêmio stadium, where curiously enough, only Botafogo had won.

Two goals from Júnior Santos gave the team a crucial victory in Belo Horizonte against América. The final score of 2-1 perhaps doesn't quite reflect what happened in the match, as the Cariocas didn't concede the last-placed team's equalizer by mere good fortune. Botafogo struggled to avoid the constant crosses into its area, causing some insecurity among the players. The Lone Star team feels much more comfortable at home and is the favorite against Athetico Paranaense despite having lost twice to this opponent this season.

After starting the match on the back foot, the Hurricane grabbed a surprising victory at the Arena do Grêmio. A goal down after 7 minutes didn't disturb the Paranaenses, who took control of the game immediately afterward. The winning goal came in the 94th minute through Kaique Rocha. Athletico eliminated Botafogo in the Copa do Brasil this season and won the Round 9 league match at home. The Hurricane is sixth with the same points as the fourth and fifth-placed teams, fighting for a place in the group stage of next year's Copa Libertadores. A draw at the Nilton Santos would be an excellent result.

Considering that Athletico-PR has caused Botafogo many problems this season, I will use a Double Chance in this game. Botafogo is strong at home, but the Paranaenses put in a good display at the Arena do Grêmio in the last round, so a draw is also possible. I'll also add a Total Under 3.5 goals to the Double Chance in favor of the home team.