As the Brasileiro Serie A continues, Bahia and Juventude are set to clash at the Arena Fonte Nova on Thursday.
This encounter is crucial for both teams aiming to solidify their positions in the league.
Current Form
Bahia
Bahia has had an impressive start to the season, initially suffering a loss to Internacional but quickly bouncing back with an eight-match unbeaten run, which included five wins and three draws.
However, their form took a hit recently with losses to Flamengo and Sao Paulo. Currently sitting fourth in the league with 24 points from 13 matches, Bahia aims to maintain their perfect home record, having won all six of their home games this season.
Juventude:
Juventude, on the other hand, has had a more erratic season. Their inconsistency is evident, with the team alternating between wins and losses over the last five matches.
This inconsistency has seen them drop to 12th place with 16 points from 12 matches.
Additionally, Juventude has struggled on the road, failing to secure a win in their six away matches this season.
Team News
Bahia
Bahia will be without Santiago Arias, who is away on international duty with Colombia.
Gilberto Junior, who scored his first goal of the season in the recent defeat to Sao Paulo, is expected to fill in at full-back.
Everaldo, the team’s top scorer with five goals, will likely lead the attack alongside Thaciano.
Juventude
Juventude faces several injury concerns, with Kleiton, Edson Carioca, and Marcelinho all sidelined.
Ewerton, who scored off the bench in the last match against Fortaleza, might be given a starting role at right-back.
Predicted Lineups
Bahia: Felipe; Junior, Xavier, Kanu, Luciano; Alexandre, Lucas, Ribeiro, Souza; Everaldo, Thaciano
Juventude: Gabriel; Ewerton, Boza, Marcos, Inocencio; Caique, Jadson, Jean; Farias, Bill, Barbosa
Prediction
Considering Bahia’s strong home form and Juventude’s struggles on the road, Bahia is favoured to win this match.
Bahia’s perfect record at home and their resilience after defeats make them likely to overpower Juventude.