Corinthians vs Botafogo Prediction: Botafogo is under pressure to win

The outcome of this match could be significant for the course of the Brasileirão. Leader Botafogo has lost six points in the last two rounds and thus a good part of its comfortable lead over Palmeiras. At the moment, seven points separate the two best teams in the Série A, so Botafogo needs to react against Corinthians. Palmeiras also has a tough away clash against Grêmio in this round, so only victory matters for Botafogo. The Cariocas could even increase the gap to the Paulistas again, but if they lose, the lead could also shrink to just four points, so there's a lot of pressure on the league leader by now.

The Timão won't have an easy task against Botafogo because, in addition to the opponent's quality, a few days after this game, there's a Copa Sudamericana semi-final to play. Also, Corinthians played a postponed match against Grêmio a few days ago, so it's likely that Vanderlei Luxemburgo will spare some players for the Copa Sudamericana clash against Fortaleza. The club's position in the table is concerning, as only three points currently separate Corinthians from the relegation places. The four-goal draw with Grêmio at home was a spectacular game, but the point gained by the Paulistas didn't improve their position in the table.

The defeat at the MRV Arena, Atlético Mineiro's new stadium, has set alarm bells ringing in the Botafogo neighborhood. What looked like a smooth path to the title could become a nightmare if the Lone Star club doesn't regain its lost confidence. Elimination from the Copa Sudamericana triggered this negative streak, which now stands at three defeats in a row, including the game against Defensa Y Justicia. Coach Bruno Lage has yet to win away from home in the Brasileirão, with three draws and one defeat in four away games since taking over at the Glorioso. Botafogo must win to pull away from Palmeiras again and clear up the fans' doubts about the Portuguese coach, who has yet to win a difficult match.

Corinthians has a vital match in the Copa Sudamericana semi-finals against Fortaleza in the middle of next week. This clash will probably influence Vanderlei Luxemburgo's choices, and he may rest some players against Botafogo. The Série A leader is under pressure to win but could take advantage of not playing against the best Corinthians team. If the Cariocas lose, it will be a big surprise. I'm betting on a Double Chance for Botafogo with a maximum of four goals in the game.