Vitória vs Fortaleza Prediction: Expect a balanced game

Two Nordeste rivals will meet in Salvador in a game that promises to be tight. Vitória is in 12th place with 42 points and is close to avoiding relegation. Fortaleza is in fourth place, and the team's target is to finish in the top four to qualify directly for the Copa Libertadores group stage, as the title seems impossible at this stage.

The Barra's Lion drew away to Botafogo, confirming the positive momentum. Vitoria started confidently at the Nilton Santos and opened the scoring after 20 minutes through Alerrandro. The Cariocas, who lead the league, struggled to penetrate the Vitória defense, which was always very secure, defending in a compact formation. Botafogo tried to increase the pressure in the second half but failed to create many chances. The equalizer came in the 87th minute when Tiquinho's header deflected off Wagner Leonardo, Vitória's captain, who was credited with the own goal. The Baianos let the victory slip away in the final minutes, but the result was still excellent against one of the best teams in South America, if not the best.

Vojvoda's team drew 0-0 at home to Flamengo, reducing its chances of fighting for the title. Even if the Cearenses beat Vitória, they will be five points behind leader Botafogo with two rounds to go. Fortaleza didn't play well and was dominated almost all the time by Flamengo, who could have been the first team to win at the Arena Castelão. The result could have been different if Pulgar hadn't been sent off in the 67th minute. Fortaleza must maintain fourth place, but it won't be easy. In the final round, the Lion will host Internacional, where it will be decided whether the Ceará side will play in the group stage of the Copa Libertadores or the qualifying round.

It's hard to predict the outcome of this game, as Vitória has only lost one match in its last five, while Fortaleza hasn't lost a single one. The Baianos drew away against leader Botafogo, so they're confident of escaping relegation. Fortaleza, practically, has no chance of fighting for the title, but it needs points to maintain fourth place. I'm betting that both teams will score.