Palmeiras vs Cruzeiro Prediction: The champion must rise from the fall

Palmeiras lost 1-0 at Botafogo in a game between two title contenders. The two teams shared the same points at the top of the Brasileirão, but with the defeat, the Verdão dropped to second place. Palmeiras played a good game but missed good chances to score. The champion fell to the ground and now has to get up.

The defeat wasn't the only negative aspect of the clash with Botafogo. Wonder kid Estêvão picked up an injury and won't be able to play against Cruzeiro. Uruguayan left-back Piquerez also has a knee injury and will be out for some time. Richard Ríos has taken a few days of rest after the Copa América and probably won't play against the Fox either. Perhaps the only good news was the debut of Felipe Anderson, who was in good form against Botafogo. Coach Abel Ferreira may use the winger, who arrived from Lazio, instead of Estêvão. Despite some key players missing, the Paulistas are capable of beating Cruzeiro. The Miners have been playing well in the league, but their performance drops considerably away from home.

The Fox is in sixth place with 29 points and one game in hand. The Belo Horizonte side is not far behind Palmeiras, who has 33 points and has played all 17 rounds. Cruzeiro beat RB Bragantino 2-1 at home to record its third straight win. The Miners are becoming more respected, especially when they play at home, where they have won every game. Matheus Pereira scored another goal and continues to impress. Cruzeiro has only won twice on the road, so the match with Palmeiras will not be easy.

Palmeiras lost a crucial game against a direct competitor and must react. Coach Abel Ferreira can't count on some of the team's key players, notably Estêvão, who has been the Verdão's most dangerous element. On the other hand, Cruzeiro will be in sixth place with three straight wins. The Miners aren't as strong away from home, but their motivation is high, and they'll be playing without too much pressure. I'm betting on both teams to score.