Botafogo vs Palmeiras Prediction: Two big Brazilian clubs meet in the Copa Libertadores

It's one of the most eagerly awaited matches in the Copa Libertadores Round of 16. Botafogo and Palmeiras are candidates to win the Brasilieirão and have the potential to win the most important South American competition. The rivalry between the two clubs has increased recently, and this knockout match will make it even more intense.

Coach Artur Jorge decided to field a secondary team against Juventude, and the game didn't go well. The Cariocas lost 3-2 and were even three goals down in Caxias do Sul. Botafogo retained the top spot in the league as Flamengo drew with Palmeiras. Some key players were able to rest and will be in better physical condition to face Palmeiras in the Copa Libertadores. Next weekend, Botafogo will host Flamengo in the Brasileirão in a decisive week for the Lone Star team.

The Verdão isn't in its best moment of the season but managed to get a good result against Flamengo at the Maracanã. The draw was crucial for the team not to fall six points behind the title contender. De Arrascaeta opened the scoring for the Cariocas in the 69th minute, but Palmeiras equalized through Luighi, an 18-year-old striker who scored his first goal for the team. The Paulistas have another challenge in Rio de Janeiro, now with Botafogo in the Copa Libertadores. Palmeiras has won the trophy three times, in 1999, 2020, and 2021, so it's naturally one of the favorites in this year's edition. The goal is to become the first Brazilian club to win the Copa Libertadores four times.

The two teams have already met this year, and Botafogo won 1-0 at home in the Série A. The winning goal came from Tiquinho Soares, who is doubtful for the game due to injury. Palmeiras is a far more experienced team in the Copa Libertadores, with three wins on its record. Botafogo reached the semi-finals in 1963 against Santos in a duel between Garrincha and Pelé. I consider Palmeiras the favorite to advance in the competition, but I will bet on a draw in the first leg.