Corinthians vs Palmeiras Prediction: Expect an intense Derby Paulista

Corinthians and Palmeiras will meet at the Neo Química Arena in a crucial game for both rivals. Corinthians is just one point above the relegation zone, while Palmeiras is in second place, three points behind leader Botafogo. Only victory will do for the champion, while a draw might satisfy the Timão, as Athletico-PR and Juventude, two sides in the Z4, have already played in this round and lost at home.

Corinthians lost 2-1 to Racing in Argentina and failed to qualify for the Copa Sudamericana final. Yuri Alberto opened the score after 6 minutes, but Racing turned the game around in the first half with two goals from Quintero. In the first leg, the two sides had drawn 2-2. It was the second final lost in a short space of time after the elimination in the Copa do Brasil semi-finals against Flamengo. The fans are upset, and losing against rival Palmeiras will put even more pressure on the team. Ramón Díaz won't be able to use some players in the derby due to injuries and suspensions. Corinthians will likely have a tough time against the reigning champion. 

Palmeiras' home draw against Fortaleza was surprising, even though it was against the third-placed team. The Verdão led twice but made mistakes in defense and got punished. Botafogo took advantage and increased the gap on Palmeiras to three points with an away win against Bragantino. Abel Ferreira's men are on a 12-game unbeaten run, but this was not a positive result. Palmeiras will make a short trip to the rival's stadium to bring home the win and keep the title hopes alive.

Anything can happen in a derby, and there's more at stake beyond the rivalry. Corinthians is battling to escape relegation, and Palmeiras is still trying to get into first place. It could be more damaging for Palmeiras to lose points, as it would allow Botafogo to increase its lead to five or six points. Corinthians is only one point above the relegation zone, but several sides are involved in the fight, so it's possible to recover if it loses the Derby Paulista. I'm going to bet on Palmeiras winning.