Palmeiras Favoured to Take Control Against Fortaleza

In the first leg of the Brazilian Cup round of 16 early on Monday, Palmeiras will host Fortaleza. Palmeiras have won five of their last six matches in all competitions, losing just once, and with their recent form plus home advantage, they look well placed to take the win.

Palmeiras stormed through the previous round of the Brazilian Cup by a 7-1 aggregate score. In the Brazilian league, they also sit top of the table with 47 points from 14 wins, five draws and two defeats. After 21 rounds, they have scored 38 goals and conceded only 16, the best attacking and defensive record in the division. Although they suffered an upset defeat two matches ago, Palmeiras responded immediately with a 4-0 thrashing of Vitoria last time out, with Jhon Arias contributing one goal and one assist. Against a Serie B opponent in this match, Palmeiras, whose squad is stronger by some distance, are expected to go all out for a big first-leg advantage.

Fortaleza, meanwhile, edged past fellow Serie B side CRB 2-1 on aggregate in the previous round. Relegated from the top flight last season, they are currently fourth in Serie B with 34 points from 10 wins, four draws and six losses. Fortaleza have shown a very clear contrast between home and away form: while their 18 home goals are tied for the best home attacking record in Serie B, they have scored only five away goals so far, the worst away attacking return in the league. On top of that, they previously lost 4-1 away to Palmeiras, so Fortaleza appear to be facing an uphill battle in this first leg.