Botafogo and Athletico Paranaense face off in an exciting Brasileiro clash at Estadio Nilton Santos this Wednesday.
This encounter promises to be a gripping contest as both teams vie for dominance in the league standings.
Team Form and Recent Performance
Botafogo
Botafogo, currently leading the Brasileiro table, have shown remarkable resilience after a shaky start to May.
They bounced back from a 2-1 home defeat against Bahia and a 1-1 draw with Fortaleza to secure three consecutive wins, catapulting them to the top of the standings.
Artur Jorge's side aims to continue their winning streak, having triumphed over Atletico Goianiense, Juventude, and Flamengo in their recent fixtures.
Athletico Paranaense
Athletico Paranaense, sitting fourth in the table, are not far behind.
Despite a 1-0 loss to Fortaleza and back-to-back Copa Sudamericana defeats, they managed to collect four points from their last two league matches.
Cuca’s team is determined to climb the standings, and a victory in Rio de Janeiro could see them leapfrog Botafogo, depending on other results.
Team News and Lineups
Botafogo will be missing several key players. Jefferson Savarino is on international duty with Venezuela, and Tiquinho Soares is absent for personal reasons.
Additionally, injuries have sidelined Jeffinho, Pablo Nascimento Castro, Matheus Nascimento, Fernando Marcal, and Rafael da Silva. Despite these absences, Botafogo’s squad depth will be tested as they look to maintain their form.
Athletico Paranaense will also be without some important players. Goalkeeper Bento and attacking midfielder Agustin Canobbio are away for the Copa America, and substitute goalkeeper Mycael is suspended.
Former Manchester City player Fernandinho, who scored a crucial goal in their last match, is expected to play a pivotal role.
Possible Lineups
Botafogo: Victor; Suarez, Halter, Bastos, Cuiabano; Freitas, Gregore; Henrique, Romero, Tche; Santos
Athletico Paranaense: Linck; Madson, Rocha, Heleno, Equivel; Fernandinho, Felipinho; Nikao, Erick, Christian; Mastriani
Prediction
Recent encounters between these teams have favoured Athletico Paranaense, but Botafogo's current form suggests a closely contested match.
Given both teams' recent performances and lineup challenges, a draw seems a likely outcome.
Our Prediction: Botafogo 1-1 Athletico Paranaense
Botafogo 
Paranaense 
