RB Bragantino vs Botafogo Prediction: Botafogo is living the dream

It was a magical night at the Nilton Santos as Botafogo demolished Peñarol 5-0 in the first leg of the Copa Libertadores semi-finals. The Cariocas are very close to reaching the final of the legendary competition for the first time after an impressive second half. The Lone Star team will travel to Uruguay next week to play the second leg, but first, it has to face Bragantino in a game where it will defend its lead. With Palmeiras just one point behind, Botafogo can't afford to relax.

The Massa Bruta lost 1-0 away to direct opponent Vitória and is now just two points above the relegation zone. Bragantino extended its winless streak to six games, and the Brasileirão punishes teams with such runs. Red Bull must react, but its next challenger is the Série A leader and one of the best sides in South America, if not the best. The Bragança Paulista side managed a two-goal draw with Palmeiras in its previous home game, so it shouldn't be too intimidated by Botafogo. 

With 0-0 at half-time, no one in the stadium thought the game would end with Botafogo winning 5-0. Savarino made it 1-0 in the 51st minute, and Barboza's 2-0 four minutes later caused the collapse of Peñarol. It was the most relevant victory the Rio club had achieved in the Copa Libertadores. Botafogo had already played in the semi-finals twice before, but the dream of reaching the final will probably come true this time. 

Botafogo recorded a stunning 5-0 win against Peñarol in the first leg of the Copa Libertadores semi-finals. The Lone Star club will likely reach the final for the first time. The Cariocas are extremely confident but could play with their heads in the clouds in Bragança Paulista. The Brasileirão is entering its decisive phase, and dropping points now could be fatal. Palmeiras is just one point below Botafogo, so the leader must win. Bragantino also needs points to escape the danger zone, so Pedro Caixinha's men will give it all they've got. I'm betting on a Double Chance in favor of Botafogo, with a maximum of three goals scored in the match.