The upcoming clash between Athletico Paranaense (Athletico PR) and Bahia in the Brasileiro promises an exciting encounter.
Both teams are eager to secure crucial points as they vie for higher standings in the league. Here's a detailed preview and prediction for this match, covering team news, recent form, and potential lineups.
Match Preview
Athletico Paranaense aims to achieve back-to-back victories for the first time in nearly two months.
Their recent performance includes a narrow 2-1 win over Atletico Goianiense, a match that saw them come from behind to clinch victory. With this win, Athletico PR sits in sixth place, just ahead of Cruzeiro in the race for a Copa Libertadores spot.
Bahia, on the other hand, is looking to bounce back after losing two of their last three matches.
They were defeated 2-0 by Palmeiras in their previous outing, which has left them in fifth place, one point above Athletico PR. Bahia is struggling with away form, having lost their last three road games.
Team Form
Athletico Paranaense
Recent Form: DDLWLW
Position: 6th in the Brasileiro
Key Players: Julimar, Lucas Di Yorio
Bahia
Recent Form: LWWLWL
Position: 5th in the Brasileiro
Key Players: Everaldo, Nicolas Acevedo
Team News
Athletico Paranaense
Athletico PR will be without Tomas Cuello, who remains sidelined due to injury.
However, Julimar has been in good form, scoring in two of his last three matches. Goalkeeper Leo Linck is expected to return to the starting lineup after serving a suspension.
Bahia
Bahia will miss the services of Nicolas Acevedo due to a knee injury. Forward Everaldo, who scored in the last meeting between these two teams, will be crucial for Bahia’s attack.
Prediction
Athletico Paranaense boasts one of the best defensive records in the league, which should give them an edge against Bahia, especially at home.
Despite their recent struggles at home, they are expected to narrowly defeat Bahia.
Our Prediction: Athletico Paranaense 1-0 Bahia