Vitória vs Criciúma Prediction: Two direct contenders meet in Salvador

The two teams played in the Série B last year, a competition won by Vitória, with Criciúma in third place, eight points behind the Baianos. However, this year, the Catarinenses are performing better. Criciuma is in 12th place with 16 points from twelve games, while Vitória is 16th with 12 points from fourteen games. Both teams want to avoid relegation, so this is a crucial match.

The Barra's Lion came close to snatching a draw against Corinthians at the Neo Química Arena. Vitória equalized twice, but Corinthians made it 3-2 in the 95th minute. Alerrandro scored both goals for Vitória and is back to full fitness after injury. It was the second straight defeat for the Baianos, who haven't won since their dramatic victory at the Maracanã against Fluminense. Carpini's team must win this game against Criciúma to regain confidence. A draw won't keep Vitória happy, and a defeat could damage the players' morale.

The Tiger got a significant home win against Cruzeiro. Criciúma suffered a little in the first half, but Bolasie's goal 26 seconds into the second half reassured the players. Tencati's team neutralized Matheus Pereira's creativity, and the Miners couldn't find space to create chances. The Catarinenses are performing above expectations in the Brasileirão and still have two games in hand. They can move further away from the relegation zone if they pick up points against Fortaleza and Cuiabá. A draw in Salvador would be a good result for Criciúma.

It's a game between teams of a similar level whose main objective is to avoid relegation to Série B, where they played last season. Criciúma has been more consistent than Vitória, probably because its position higher up the table gives it more peace of mind. The Baianos may be a little nervous, given their obligation to win. The visitors will be looking to exploit the counter-attack and take points from a direct competitor. It should be a very even game unless there's a red card or if something out of the ordinary happens. My bet is for a draw.