RB Bragantino vs Athletico-PR Prediction: This is the first of three duels between the two teams

The draw for the Round of 16 of the Copa do Brazil is now known, and these two sides will compete against each other to qualify for the quarter-finals later this month. This Brasileirão match will be the first of three meetings between Bragantino and Athletico, as the Copa do Brazil rounds have two legs. The strength of both squads is similar, so it should be an even match.

The Red Bull lost again away from home, this time to Cruzeiro, and continues to struggle on the road. The result didn't shock, as the opponent had won all its home games. This week, Bragantino traveled to Guayaquil to face Barcelona in the first leg of the Copa Sudamericana Playoff and drew 1-1. The result was positive, giving the team a good chance of qualifying. In the Brasileirão, tenth place is a bit of a disappointment for fans, who were hoping for a better position. The game with Athletico Paranaense is determinant not only for the three points but also to gain a psychological advantage for the Copa do Brasil matches.

The Hurricane also drew 1-1 away in the Copa Sudamericana. It was in Paraguay against Cerro Porteño. Martín Varíni, the youngest coach in the Brasileirão, made a promising start to his experience in charge of Athletico. In his first game, the Uruguayan coach won a Copa do Brasil match against YpIranga 3-0. The game in Bragança Paulista is tricky, and a draw would be a good result. The departure of coach Cuca caused some instability, and the Paranaenses dropped to eighth place after a good league start.

Bragantino is a strong team at home, and Athletico Paranaense doesn't have an impressive record on the road. Both teams have quality players and aim to qualify for the Copa Libertadores next year. Playing at home, Bragantino has a slightly better chance of victory, but I expect a balanced contest. The two sides had midweek away matches for the Copa Sudamericana, and fatigue could influence the game. I'm going for a draw.