Botafogo vs Grêmio Prediction: The Cariocas are very confident

Botafogo and Grêmio will meet in Brasília, having played midweek games with impactful results for both teams. The Cariocas have qualified for the semi-finals of the Copa Libertadores 51 years later and are delighted with the feat. Grêmio, on the other hand, lost unexpectedly at home to Criciúma in a postponed Round 5 match and couldn't get out of the danger zone in the table.

Botafogo's mission at the Morumbi wasn't simple after a goalless draw at home in the first leg. However, it soon became evident the determination of Artur Jorge's men to get a good result. Botafogo controlled the game since the kick-off, putting massive pressure on São Paulo's build-up play. Unsurprisingly, the Lone Star team scored through Thiago Almada in the 15th minute after stealing the ball near the Paulistas' area. The home side continued to struggle, but near half-time, the VAR spotted a handball by Bastos in the box and awarded São Paulo a penalty. Lucas Moura missed the golden opportunity, hitting the crossbar. The Tricolor Paulista improved considerably in the second half and had several chances to draw level, which came in the 87th minute. Calleri jumped higher than the Botafogo defense and scored with a beautiful header. The Morumbi heated up, and the Paulistas were close to scoring a second goal, given the pressure exerted on Botafogo. The tie had to be decided by penalties, and the Cariocas came out on top, achieving a fair result for what they had done in the two games.

The Immortal missed the chance to win two consecutive games by losing at home to direct opponent Criciúma. Grêmio had beaten Flamengo 3-2 at home and looked set to win again to move away from the relegation zone. However, the visitors showed ambition and scored after just 14 minutes through Caike. There was still plenty of time left to play, but the Gaúchos didn't play well and only managed to equalize in the 67th minute through captain Villasanti. The comeback seemed possible, but Ronald hit a powerful long shot in the 78th minute, freezing the Arena do Grêmio. The Catarinenses managed to withstand the home team's final pressure and secured a precious victory to climb to 13th, overtaking Grêmio, who now sits in 14th.

The game will take place on a neutral field, yet Botafogo is still the favorite to win. Artur Jorge may change a few players who might feel tired, but the coach has several solutions in his squad. Grêmio suffered an unexpected defeat at home and has lost some confidence. I'm backing Botafogo to win.