Palmeiras vs Botafogo Prediction: Who will qualify for the quarter-finals?

The match between Palmeiras and Botafogo is the most anticipated of the Copa Libertadores Round of 16. While the home team is a heavyweight in the South American competition, Botafogo is the leader of the Brasileirão, the league from which the winners of the last five Copa Libertadores have emerged. In the first leg, Botafogo won 2-1 at home.

The Verdão won the derby against São Paulo, with the winning goal coming in the last minute of a long period of added time. Flaco López jumped higher than goalkeeper Rafael and headed the ball into the net just as the game looked set to end in a draw. Abel Ferreira's team never gives up and fights until the last second. With the victory over its rival, Palmeiras moved to third place after Flamengo lost 4-1 to Botafogo. The league leader is on a high, so it won't be easy for Palmeiras to qualify for the Copa Libertadores quarter-finals.

The Lone Star team beat rival Flamengo and took a significant step in the fight for the title. Unlike Tite, Artur Jorge decided to field his best eleven, and the home team was superior for most of the game. It will be interesting to see whether Botafogo's physical condition will be affected in the second leg of the Copa Libertadores. Botafogo and Palmeiras are going through an intense cycle of games that will culminate in the Copa Libertadores clash. The Cariocas have never lifted the trophy and might have a chance of doing it for the first time if they eliminate Palmeiras.

Palmeiras has won the major South American club competition three times, while Botafogo has reached the semi-finals once. The Paulistas' vast experience in the tournament could be decisive in a tight knock-out. Botafogo has won both meetings with Palmeiras this season, one for the Brasileirao and the other in the first leg of the Copa Libertadores Round of 16. Still, this game at the Allianz Parque will be the ultimate test of the team's ability. I'm leaning towards a surprise and a draw. A more conservative option is to bet on a game where both sides score.