Fortaleza vs RB Bragantino Prediction: A good match is expected between two competent teams

The eighth and ninth-placed teams of the Brasileirão will meet in this match. Fortaleza and Bragantino have grown a lot in the Brazilian football arena and have created an image of competence for the work done. Both teams are also qualified for the Round of 16 of the Copa Sudamericana, so there is no shortage of reasons for their fans to be proud. Both clubs aim to secure a place in an international competition next season, ideally the Copa Libertadores. The top four teams grant direct access to the most important cup in South America and are not that far from Bragantino and Fortaleza due to the great punctual balance of the Brasileirão. This game is important for both teams because they are two direct opponents with the same goal.

In its last match, the Lion lost 3-1 against Champion Palmeiras in São Paulo. In the Brasileirão, it was the first time the team conceded three goals and suffered two defeats in a row. The match was more balanced than the final score shows. Palmeiras' last two goals came in the last 15 minutes of the game. Coach Juan Pablo Vojvoda has to rally the troops after two adverse results. The defeat with Cuiabá in Round 15 was the first at home and appears to have affected the players a bit. This match with Bragantino will not be easy, and Fortaleza must not lose again, as three consecutive losses can compromise what has been a good league performance.

The Massa Bruta has yet to score and has not won for three games. These were games with complicated opponents, but still, there are some reasons for concern. Bragantino has eleven injured players, affecting the team's performance. In seven matches played away, Bragantino has one win, four draws, and two losses. It is not easy to beat this team which in all Brasileirão games has only three defeats. Pedro Caixinha has organized the team tactically well, and it rarely loses its solidity during matches. In recent games, Red Bull has lacked killer instinct because the team in the last three games has an average of 21 shots made, and as referred before, without scoring any goal.

Both teams are strong in their defensive sector, so it's likely a low number of goals. Both coaches do not like to give their opponents too much space. Fortaleza has only conceded five goals at home. I will bet on a total score of less than 2.5 goals, as a high score in matches involving these two teams is rare.