Botafogo vs Atlético-MG Prediction: Botafogo must be careful against a dangerous opponent

Botafogo is three points behind rival Flamengo, the Brasileirão leader, and has 27 points joined by Bahia and Palmeiras. These two teams will meet in this round, so if Botafogo beats Atlético-MG, it will gain points on at least one of the opponents. The Miners travel to Rio de Janeiro to make amends for their 4-2 defeat at home to Flamengo in the last round.

The Cariocas won 2-1 in Cuiabá against a side that hadn't lost in five games. Botafogo didn't impress but was efficient in the end, unlike the home team, who missed several chances. Kauê and Ponte scored the goals for the Glorious and were unlikely heroes as both players are not usually part of Artur Jorge's starting line-up. After Allan, Botafogo signed Argentine Thiago Almada for 25 million dollars, the most expensive signing by a Brazilian club. The 23-year-old attacking midfielder will participate in the Olympic Games with his national team, and only then will he join his new colleagues. The club aims to win the title, and the signings show ambition. For now, the Lone Star Team hosts Atlético Mineiro and needs to win to prevent Flamengo from widening the gap. The Brasileirão leader hosts Cuiabá and, in theory, should win.

The Rooster continues to disappoint after a promising start to the season. Milito's team impressed in the early rounds of the Brasileirão with its dynamic and attacking football but is currently struggling, especially at home. Atlético hasn't won at home in five games and is in a modest 11th place. The club has signed Bernard and Lyanco, two highly-rated players who could be available after July 10, when the transfer window reopens. The Miners need at least a draw against Botafogo to gain some confidence. The 4-2 defeat at home to Flamengo is worrying, as the Cariocas made it 3-0 without much trouble.

Botafogo only lost at the Nilton Santos to Bahia, but Atlético Mineiro has also only lost once on the road. The Cariocas are fighting for the title and have a better chance of winning, but they need to be at a high level to win. Hulk and Paulinho are dangerous forwards, and the Rooster has scored in five of its six away games. I'm going to bet on both teams scoring.