Botafogo vs Bahia Prediction: Botafogo wants to stay at the top of the Série A

The Cariocas lost in the opening match of the Brasileirão, but with three victories in the following rounds, they reached the top of the table. Coach Artur Jorge seems to have restored the confidence the players have lacked since last season. The victory at the Maracanã over Flamengo, one of the title contenders, may have been a turning point in the Glorioso's season. Facing Bahia, Botafogo will try to get a fourth straight win in the league to remain in first place.

In addition to the three consecutive wins in the Brasileirão, the Lone Star team beat Universitario in the Copa Libertadores and, this week, Vitória in the Copa do Brasil. That's five straight victories in all competitions, demonstrating Botafogo's progress and getting their fans excited again. The Cariocas don't seem to have a squad with enough options to face the demanding season, but if the team continues to do well until the next transfer window, John Textor, the club's owner, will probably decide to sign some players. Without the injured Tiquinho Soares, Carlos Eduardo played as a striker and scored the goal in the 1-0 win over Vitória. It won't be easy against Bahia, but Botafogo can win again at the Nilton Santos.

The Tricolor Baiano hosted and beat Criciúma 1-0 in the first leg of the Copa do Brasil third round. Thaciano scored the winning goal in a game controlled by Bahia from start to finish. In the Brasileirão, Rogério Ceni's team is a pleasant surprise, occupying fifth place with seven points. The midfield, with players like Caio Alexandre, Éverton Ribeiro, and Cauly, is one of the most technically gifted in Brazil. The Baianos have yet to win on the road but go to Rio de Janeiro with ambition.

It's an exciting game between two well-positioned and surprising teams. Botafogo is strong at home and is on the back of five successive wins. On the other hand, Bahia has shown that it's strong enough to fight against any team in the Brasileirão. I'm betting on a Double Chance for the home team with a maximum of three goals scored in the match, thus maintaining the possibility of a draw.