Botafogo vs Fortaleza Prediction: A duel for the throne

The top two teams in the Brasileirão will clash in Rio de Janeiro in the most anticipated match of Round 25. Botafogo is in second place, one point behind Fortaleza, but the Ceará side has a game in hand. The Lone Star team will claim the throne if it wins the match, but Fortaleza has won nine of its last ten games in the Série A and is very confident. 

The Cariocas couldn't get past a 0-0 draw with Bahia in the last round. No one expected anything easy in Salvador after a draining game with Palmeiras in the Copa Libertadores. Botafogo hasn't won any of its four games against the Baianos this year and has been knocked out of the Copa do Brasil by them. The draw ultimately reflected the production of both teams. Botafogo was unfortunate to send two balls into the posts, but Bahia only failed to score in the last few minutes due to miraculous saves by goalkeeper John. It was the final game of a tremendously demanding month for Botafogo. Artur Jorge's side will now face Fortaleza to win and regain the first place lost in the previous round.

The Lion had to suffer to beat Corinthians 1-0 at home. The Paulistas played with character at the Arena Castelão, but their resistance was broken in the 77th minute by a goal from Yago Pikachu. It wasn't Fortaleza's best performance, but the team was somewhat tired from the intense game against Rosario Central for the Copa Sudamericana midweek. Vojvoda's men have won five of their last five league matches, all by one goal margin. Tactical rigor and determination are the Cearenses' strong points.

These have been the best teams in the Brasileirão so far, and this game could show who is more determined to be the champion. The Cariocas lost the title last season, so they're more used to this pressure than Fortaleza. The Cearenses, however, haven't lost for a long time and are very confident. It's not easy to predict who will win, but the home factor could upset the balance of power. I'm betting on a Double Chance in favor of Botafogo with a minimum of two goals scored in the game.