The upcoming Brasileiro clash between Palmeiras and Bragantino on Thursday night is set to be an exciting contest. With just two points separating the teams in the league table, both sides are eager to secure a victory.
Palmeiras, currently fifth, aim to maintain close proximity to the league leaders, while Bragantino, sitting in seventh, look to recover from recent inconsistent performances.
Team Form
Palmeiras
Palmeiras have demonstrated a strong form recently, boasting three consecutive victories against Criciuma, Vasco da Gama, and Atletico Mineiro.
During these matches, they scored eight goals and conceded only one. In their last 18 outings, they have suffered just two defeats, showcasing their resilience and consistency.
Notably, Palmeiras have been solid defensively, conceding only one goal in their last five fixtures across all competitions.
Bragantino
Bragantino's season started positively, remaining undefeated in their first five league games and collecting nine points.
However, recent matches have seen a decline in their performance, with two defeats in their last four games against Bahia and Atletico Mineiro.
Despite these setbacks, they secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Juventude, even after being reduced to ten men early in the match.
Bragantino's defence has been relatively stable, conceding nine goals in as many games.
Team News
Palmeiras
Palmeiras might rotate their squad due to the short turnaround from their last match.
Key players such as Mayke, Gabriel Menino, and Jose Lopez are in contention to start.
However, Richard Rios and Gustavo Gomez will miss the match due to their participation in the Copa America.
Bragantino
Bragantino will be without Jadsom following his early red card in their previous game.
Nathan Mendes is available for selection again after serving his suspension. Juninho Capixaba is expected to feature at left-back, replacing the suspended Luan Candido.
With a longer rest period before this game, Bragantino might field a similar lineup to their last match, barring the necessary changes.
Predicted Lineups
Palmeiras Weverton; Rocha, Naves, Murillo, Piquerez; Rafael, Moreno; Estevao, Veiga, Lazaro; Rony
Bragantino Cleiton; Mendes, Henrique, Santos, Capixaba; Gustavinho, Fernandes, Evangelista; Helinho, Borbas, Mosquera
Prediction
Despite the potential distraction of transfer rumours, Palmeiras are expected to continue their winning momentum.
Bragantino, though capable of a strong fight, may struggle to breach Palmeiras' solid defence. A clean sheet and another victory for Palmeiras seem likely.
Our Prediction: Palmeiras 3-0 Bragantino
Palmeiras 
Bragantino 
