Fortaleza vs Palmeiras Prediction: Champion Palmeiras is the new leader of the Brasileirão

This year's edition of the Brasileirão is proving to be very exciting, with many uncertainties as to who will lift the champion's trophy, who will be relegated to the Série B, and who will qualify for international competitions. Palmeiras, with a memorable 4-3 win over Botafogo in Rio de Janeiro, caused the downfall of the league leader at the time. The Paulistas' greater experience in the decisive phase of competitions is making a difference. This visit to Fortaleza is one of the toughest games the Verdão must play until the end of the tournament.

In the game it had in hand against Botafogo, Fortaleza ended up drawing and helping Palmeiras, now the table's sole leader. Qualification for the Copa Sudamericana is still possible, but the Cearenses can't think they're completely safe from relegation. In the two games in hand it had to play, the Lion has only managed one point, and in the meantime, the teams fighting against relegation have moved closer on points. Fortaleza is only three points above the Z4 despite occupying 11th place, so a defeat could complicate things for Vojvoda's team.

The comfortable 3-0 home win over Inter was the champion's last game before the international break. In its last away match, Palmeiras lost 3-0 to Flamengo in a contest where all went well for the Cariocas. Back on the road, Verdão must win. If the Paulistas win all four of their remaining games, they'll be crowned champions, so there's no shortage of motivation.

Palmeiras has a tough test against Fortaleza, which urgently needs points. Abel Ferreira's team did the hardest part: reaching the top of the table after being a long way behind Botafogo. The club is the main favorite for the title and has to prove it on the pitch. Several teams are waiting for the league leader to slip up, but I will bet on a Palmeiras win.