The upcoming Brasileiro clash between Bahia and Cruzeiro promises to be an exciting encounter as both teams vie for a top-six finish.
Here's an in-depth look at their form, team news, and predictions for the match.
Bahia's Recent Form
Bahia has had a strong start to the 2024 league campaign. Despite a recent 2-1 loss to Flamengo, Bahia has shown resilience and quality in their matches.
They currently sit in fifth position in the Brasileiro table, which is a significant improvement considering they narrowly avoided relegation last season.
Bahia boasts a 100% home record this season, winning all four of their home matches, scoring five goals, and conceding just one.
Cruzeiro's Recent Form
Cruzeiro, sitting just one spot below Bahia in sixth place, has also had a commendable start to the season.
They secured a solid 2-0 win against Fluminense in their last outing. However, Cruzeiro has struggled on the road, failing to score in their last two away matches.
Their inconsistency away from home could be a significant factor in their upcoming match against Bahia.
Team News
Bahia
Bahia will be without right-back Santiago Arias, who is on international duty with Colombia at the Copa America.
Gilberto Junior is expected to continue in his place. Additionally, Nicolas Acevedo remains sidelined with a cruciate ligament injury.
Cruzeiro
Cruzeiro will miss Rangers loanee Jose Cifuentes, who is representing Ecuador at the Copa America.
Alvaro Barreal is also out due to a knee injury, while Lucas Daniel Romero will miss the match because of a muscular injury. Machado is set to continue in the midfield.
Predicted Lineups
Bahia
Felipe; Junior, Xavier, Kanu, Luciano; Alexandre, Lucas, Ribeiro, Souza; Thiciano, Everaldo
Cruzeiro
Anderson; William, Ivaldo, Marcelo, Marlon; Silva, Machado, Ramiro; Veron, Robert, Pereira
Prediction
Given Bahia's impeccable home record and Cruzeiro's struggles on the road, the advantage tilts towards Bahia.
Cruzeiro's inability to score in recent away games further supports this prediction.
We anticipate a close match but predict a narrow 1-0 victory for Bahia.
Bahia 
Cruzeiro 
