Botafogo and Palmeiras are gearing up for an intense Copa Libertadores clash at Estadio Nilton Santos. As Brazilian heavyweights, both teams are eager to secure a victory in the first leg of their round of 16 tie to advance to the quarter-finals. Here is a detailed preview of the upcoming match, including predictions, team news, and possible lineups.
### Botafogo’s Journey to the Round of 16
Botafogo earned their spot in the last 16 of the Copa Libertadores by finishing second in their group with 10 points from six matches. With a record of three wins, one draw, and two losses, they narrowly missed out on the top spot to Atletico Junior. Despite a solid performance in the group stage, Botafogo suffered a setback in their opening match, losing 3-1 to Los Tiburones.
In addition to their Copa Libertadores campaign, Botafogo has been leading the Brasileiro standings after 22 matches. However, their lead has been reduced to just one point following recent losses to Juventude and Bahia. Despite their recent struggles, Botafogo boasts an impressive home record, with just one defeat in their last nine matches across all competitions.
### Palmeiras’ Title Defense at Stake
After clinching the Brasileiro title in the last two seasons, Palmeiras faces a tough challenge this year as they currently sit in fourth place, trailing the league leaders by five points. The team’s recent form has been concerning, with no wins in their last four top-flight matches. Palmeiras also suffered a disappointing exit from the Copa do Brasil, failing to overturn a 2-0 loss to Flamengo.
Despite their domestic struggles, Palmeiras excelled in the Copa Libertadores group stage, finishing unbeaten with 14 points. However, their away form has been a cause for concern, as they have failed to win any of their last seven away games and were shut out in four of those matches.
### Team News and Lineups
Botafogo will be without Rafael, Matheus Nascimento, and Pablo due to injuries, while Jeffinho and Junior Santos are also sidelined. Palmeiras will be missing Joaquin Piquerez for the rest of the season due to a cruciate ligament tear, along with Bruno Rodrigues, Felipe Anderson, Mayke, and Dudu who are either injured or doubtful for the upcoming match.
**Possible Starting Lineups:**
**Botafogo:** Victor; Ponte, Bastos, Barboza, Cuiabano; Danilo, Freitas, Henrique, Savarino, Almada; Jesus
**Palmeiras:** Weverton; Gomez, Reis, Cerqueira; Giay, Moreno, Rios, Lazaro, Rony; Vanderlan, Lopez
### Prediction
Despite Palmeiras’ recent success in this fixture, their poor away form raises concerns. Botafogo’s strong home record and recent victory over Palmeiras give them an edge in the upcoming match. I predict a close 1-0 victory for Botafogo in the first leg of this Copa Libertadores tie.
In conclusion, the Botafogo vs. Palmeiras clash promises to be an exciting encounter, with both teams aiming to secure a crucial victory in the Copa Libertadores. Stay tuned for the thrilling action as these Brazilian giants battle it out on the pitch.