Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Brazilian Serie A match.
Just two days after their most recent league matches, Botafogo and Ceará are set to face off in a previously postponed clash. Both clubs sit side-by-side in mid-table, tied on 15 points in 9th and 10th respectively — with Botafogo marginally ahead on goal difference. A win here would see either side leap into the Copa Libertadores qualification zone.
Botafogo
The upcoming opponents are currently tied with 15 points. Botafogo are only ahead due to goal difference. The Brazilian champion surpassed not only Ceara but also Corinthians in the last round by virtue of a single goal and a narrow 1:0 victory over Santos. Until the final 15 minutes, Botafogo were mostly playing second fiddle, but a sending-off for the home side shifted the momentum. In the 86th minute, the pressure paid off, and Arthur Victor scored.
Ceará
In their home match in round 11, Ceará lost to Atlético Mineiro. The opposing team also had a player sent off, but it was in the 93rd minute, too late to affect the result. Ceará were already trailing, having conceded in the 78th minute, despite having been the better team for most of the match. They had more shots (14 vs 8) and a higher xG (0.75 vs 0.47), but only managed three shots on target, whereas their opponent had four.
Botafogo vs Ceará Prediction
Don’t expect fireworks here. Ceará have yet to win on the road, and Botafogo have been nearly flawless at home. Both sides are coming off energy-sapping matches and showed signs of fatigue. Given the pattern of play and travel burden, a low-scoring affair seems most likely.
