Botafogo vs Criciúma Prediction: The leader is the favorite

Botafogo and Criciúma will meet at the Maracanã in a Round 30 match with 60,000 spectators in the stands. Botafogo is in first place with 60 points, three more than its closest challenger, the champion Palmeiras. Criciúma is in 12th place, six points above the relegation zone.

The Glorious is about to enter a decisive phase for its future. There are nine rounds of the Brasileirão to go, and next week, Botafogo will fight for a place in the Copa Libertadores final with Peñarol. Botafogo is not one of the most successful clubs in Brazil, losing several titles in its history by failing at critical moments. The Lone Star club led the Série A for almost the entire season last year, reaching a 13-point lead over its opponents, but lost the title. This year, the team seems more mature and has eliminated Palmeiras and São Paulo from the Copa Libertadores, a competition it has never won. Against Criciúma, only the three points matter, and the Botafogo fans will be looking to push their side to victory. There are some doubts about which starting eleven Artur Jorge will pick due to the presence of several players in the national teams. Igor Jesus and Luiz Henrique were outstanding for Brazil against Chile and Peru and are full of confidence.

In the last round, the Tiger won 2-0 at home against Atlético Goianiense, the last-placed team in the league. It was a vital win for Criciúma, who moved up two places in the table and increased the gap to the relegation zone. The goal is closer, but the Catarinenses need to keep picking up points, as a bad run of games could complicate their situation. In Round 11, Criciúma beat Botafogo 2-1 at home and will look for a good result.

Botafogo leads the Brasileirão by three points, so it must win to stay on course for the title. The Cariocas have released several players to the national teams, so coach Artur Jorge might have to manage the fatigue of some of them against Criciúma. I'm backing Botafogo to win with a maximum of four goals scored to increase the odds.