Palmeiras vs Corinthians Prediction: Palmeiras is the favorite in the Derby Paulista

Two giant clubs of São Paulo will compete in one of Brazil's biggest derbies. The rivalry between Palmeiras and Corinthians began in 1917, when they met for the first time, and is still alive today. Palmeiras is enjoying a successful period in its history, having recently won several major titles, such as the Brasileirão and Copa Libertadores. Meanwhile, Corinthians has not been so happy in recent years. The club's fragile financial situation is hampering the building of a competitive team.

The Verdão suffered its third defeat in the Brasileirão, curiously the first on the road. Palmeiras usually struggles when visiting Fortaleza, but a 3-0 defeat was not on the cards. The home team's goal after just 9 minutes affected the Paulistas, who seemed nervous, especially when it came to finishing. Lucero's second goal at the start of the second half practically sealed the game. The result didn't penalize the Verdão too much because Flamengo, its main title rival, also lost. Abel Ferreira's men now must focus on the derby. They need to react to the defeat in Fortaleza and beat rival Corinthians. Nothing else matters to Palmeiras and its fans.

The Timão drew 1-1 at home against Cuiabá and again showed its weaknesses. The result was flattering for Corinthians, as the Mato-Grossenses missed a penalty when they were already leading 1-0. Goalkeeper Donelli saved Pitta's shot, boosting the confidence of his teammates. The Timão tried, with more conviction, to score a goal, but the wall of Cuiabá defenders held firm. Finally, in the 86th minute, the equalizer came. Matheus Bidu, in a moment of inspiration, scored a great goal with a left-footed volley that sent the fans wild. Corinthians escaped defeat but remains in the relegation zone. António Oliveira's side now has a derby to play where it is the underdog.

Palmeiras has won the last two leagues in Brazil and remains at the top of the table this year. On the other hand, Corinthians narrowly avoided falling into the Série B in the last season, and currently, the club is in the relegation zone. There is a big difference in quality between the two sides. It doesn't mean that Corinthians can't get a good result against the rival, as it did in the Paulistão with a draw, but it's unlikely. I will not risk too much, so I'll bet on Palmeiras winning by a maximum of four goals to increase the odds.