Cruzeiro vs Botafogo Prediction: Botafogo with a hard nut to crack

Botafogo is twelve points ahead of its closest opponents and remains comfortable in the Brasileirão. The Glorioso lead from the start and has so far shown to be the most competent team in the league with the best attack and the best defense. This upcoming game for Botafogo is likely to be difficult not only due to the quality of Cruzeiro but also the absence of pressure from the Minas Gerais team, which is calm in 10th place. The Raposa played in the Série B last year and has shown to be very competitive.

Cruzeiro

The Miners played a great match at the Arena da Baixada against Ahtletico-PR. The game ended in a 3-goal draw in an exciting football display. A penalty committed in the 87th minute did not allow Cruzeiro to clinch the victory. Coach Pepa was sent off and will not be able to be on the bench against Botafogo. Goalkeeper Rafael Cabral and striker Wesley are also suspended. The team's Achilles heel is home games, with five defeats in nine matches. To beat the league leaders, Cruzeiro must play a perfect game.

Expected opening lineup for Cruzeiro

Anderson; William, Neris, Luciano Castán, Marlon; Matheus Jussa, Filipe Machado, Mateus Vital, Lucas Silva; Arthur Gomes, Bruno Rodrigues.

Botafogo

In midweek, the Lone Star had a tricky game at home in the Copa Sudamericana. After conceding a goal in the 3rd minute, Botafogo managed to turn things around against Guaraní with a penalty kick from Tiquinho in the 90th minute. After the match against Cruzeiro, the Cariocas will travel to Paraguay to play the Round of 16-second leg of a competition they want to win. It was their second win in a matter of days after beating Coritiba 4-1 in the Brasileirão. Facing Cruzeiro, Botafogo will go into the Mineirão looking to take the three points, as it has been their usual practice this season.

Expected opening lineup for Botafogo

Perri; Di Plácido, Adryelson, Cuesta, Marçal; Marlon Freitas, Tchê Tchê, Eduardo; Gustavo Sauer, Tiquinho Soares, Victor Sá.

Expert Betting Tips

Bookmakers see Cruzeiro as the favorite for this match, maybe due to the history between the two teams. In 32 home games for the league, Cruzeiro won 18, and Botafogo only six times. I will still bet on a victory for the Cariocas, who are at high odds. The home team will make life difficult for the leader, but in 17 league games, Botafogo won 14.