Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Brazilian Série A match.
The recent outings from Bahia and Atlético Mineiro have been short on goalmouth action, suggesting their upcoming clash is unlikely to feature many goals. Both sides are positioned in the top half of the Série A standings and will be wary of giving away ground to direct rivals, so a cautious, tactical battle is expected.
Bahia
Before their back-to-back victories over São Paulo FC (2:1) and Red Bull Bragantino (3:0), only three of Bahia’s first ten Série A fixtures had featured matches finishing with more than two goals. The squad has been particularly solid at home, conceding just four times in six games — the fourth-best home defensive record in the division. Facing a direct rival in the standings, there’s little reason to expect a change in approach. The team will likely set up to play on the counter.
Atlético Mineiro
Since late April, Atlético Mineiro have enjoyed a strong run on the road, collecting eight points from a possible twelve in away league fixtures and keeping three clean sheets in the process. The squad appears to have adjusted well to the absence of three injured players, but suspensions to Everson Pereira da Silva, Ronielson da Silva Barbosa, and Vojnovic Lyanco have further limited their options. In attack, Atlético Mineiro have lacked cutting edge all season, scoring just 13 goals — only Sociedade Esportiva Palmeiras have netted fewer (12) among the current top ten, and they have played one game fewer.
Bahia vs Atlético Mineiro Prediction
With home advantage, Bahia are expected to soak up pressure and neutralise threats, while Atlético Mineiro may settle for a share of the spoils. A low-scoring contest seems the most probable outcome.
