The upcoming clash between Sao Paulo and Bahia in the Brasileiro league promises an exciting matchup.
With both teams vying for critical points, this game is set to be a thriller. Here’s a detailed preview of the match, including predictions, team news, form, and lineups.
Match Preview
Sao Paulo will face Bahia at Estadio Cicero Pompeu de Toledo on Sunday night, aiming to move into the Copa Libertadores qualification spots.
The hosts are just one point off the top six in the league standings, while the visitors are currently in second place, level on points with the leaders, Flamengo.
Team Form
Sao Paulo
Sao Paulo had a mixed start to the 2024 campaign but have shown promise. With 18 points from their first 12 games, they have recorded five wins, three draws, and four losses.
Their recent 2-1 victory over Criciuma marked an end to a four-match winless streak.
Sao Paulo has been strong at home, winning three of their last four games at MorumBIS.
Bahia
Bahia, on the other hand, has had a remarkable season so far. After an opening-day defeat to Internacional, they went on an eight-match unbeaten run, including five wins.
They recently secured their seventh win of the season against Vasco da Gama. However, their away form remains a concern, with only one win in six outings.
Team News
Sao Paulo
Sao Paulo will be without several key players due to international duties at the Copa America.
These include Rafael, Nahuel Farraresi, Damian Bobadilla, and James Rodriguez. Additionally, Rafinha, Felipe Negrucci, and Pablo Maia are sidelined with injuries.
Bahia
Bahia will miss Santiago Arias, who is away on international duty. Nicolas Acevedo remains out with a long-term cruciate ligament injury.
Everaldo, the team's top scorer with five goals, will lead the line in this match.
Prediction
Given Bahia’s strong form but weak away record, and Sao Paulo's solid home performance, this match is poised to be closely contested. A draw seems the most likely outcome.
Our Prediction: Sao Paulo 2-2 Bahia