Portuguesa RJ vs Botafogo Prediction: Can Botafogo Settle the Previous Scores?

In the upcoming fixture of Taca Rio Semi-finals, Leg 1, Portuguesa RJ will take on Botafogo at the Estádio Luso Brasileiro in Rio de Janeiro. Going in the matchup, the two sides did manage to finish in the top eight standings of Carioca Serie A. Portuguesa RJ and Botafogo last played on March 9, 2023 and Portuguesa won (0-1) away from home. 

Portuguesa RJ - Has Managed to Stay Undefeated in 6 of the Last 7 Matches (WDLDW)

Going in the matchup, Portuguesa RJ is coming off a win against Botafogo (0-1), in which Anderson scored the only goal of the match in the 43rd minute of play. In the ongoing season of Carioca Serie A, Portuguesa managed a goal scoring average of 1.00 goals at home. Compared to the scoring average, the conceding average is also 1.00 goals. Though Portuguesa is coming off a win against Botafogo, the upcoming matchup is likely to test Portuguesa’s overall attacking and defensive skills. Portuguesa RJ has scored 16 goals in 8 goals against Botafogo, averaging 1.5 goals per game. Therefore, Portuguesa will be fancying its chances for scoring upfront against Botafogo.

Key Players for Portuguesa RJ

• Emerson Carioca
• Lucas Santos

Botafogo - Lost to Portuguesa in the Last League Match (LWLLW)

Going in the matchup, Botafogo is coming off a defeat against Botafogo (0-1) in the last league fixture of Carioca Serie A. Botafogo did start the competition on a high and was among the top favorites for ending in the top 4 standings. However, it has now been defeated thrice in the last 5 matches played. With a goal scoring average of 0.8 goals per game, Botafogo might struggle playing away from home. Apart from the recent past form, Botafogo has done quite well in the competition and will be aligning itself to come out strong in Brazil Serie A fixtures as well. With the likes of Carlos Alberto and Matheus Nascimento in the lineup, Botafogo is likely to at least have a contribution in scoring. 

Key Players for Botafogo

• Tiquinho Soares
• Lucas Piazon

Expert Betting Tips

Going in the matchup, Portuguesa RJ will be highly dependent on the likes of Emerson Carioca, who has certainly contributed to the team's success in the past few matches. Considering the goal scoring advantage and winning form of Portuguesa, I am backing the home team to win. The match total is expected to be under 2.5 goals as the last two matches of both sides recorded a total of under 2.5 goals. The final scoreline is predicted to be 1-0 for Botafogo to manage a draw (1-1).

• Double Chance - Portuguesa RJ or Draw for 2.10
• Total Under 2.5 for 1.62
• Correct Score 1-1 for 7