Palmeiras vs Criciúma Prediction: Palmeiras looks for another win

The Brazilian champion is in third place, three points behind Botafogo, the Série A leader, and will host Criciúma in a game where only victory matters. Palmeiras is out of both the Copa Libertadores and Copa do Brasil. Criciúma is three points above the relegation zone and will try to cause a surprise.

The Verdão traveled to Curitiba to face Athletico Paranaense and won 2-0, clinching its third consecutive league victory. Abel Ferreira's men entered the Ligga Arena determined, and after 8 minutes, they were already winning with a goal from Maurício. Palmeiras remained focused, holding off the home team's attacks and never stopping trying for a second goal. The 2-0 came in the 58th minute through Estêvão in a brilliant individual effort, and from then on, the victory was in the hands of the Paulistas. Palmeiras could win the Brasileirão for the third successive year, as it's the only competition in which it's involved. Botafogo, Flamengo, and Fortaleza are in the quarter-finals of international competitions and will have a more demanding schedule. 

The Tiger lost 2-1 in Cuiabá and remains dangerously close to the Z4. Criciúma was beating its direct opponent at half-time but allowed a second-half comeback. The Catarinenses need points, as 14th place isn't safe, with the relegation zone just three points below. Criciúma hasn't beaten Palmeiras for 27 years, which shows how difficult the next game is. In Round 7, the Coalmen almost managed to draw with the Paulistas but conceded a goal in stoppage time.

Palmeiras is the clear favorite in this game, and any result other than a victory for the home team will be unexpected. As the only title the Paulistas can win this year is the Brasileirão, they will be at full strength every game. Criciúma has won three times on the road, which isn't a bad record, but winning at the Allianz Parque is very difficult. The odds for a Palmeiras victory are very low, so I will take my chances in the Verdão prevailing by half-time and at the end of the game.