Botafogo backed for home win over injury-hit Fluminense

Botafogo are backed to beat Fluminense at home, with the visitors missing several defenders through injury. The hosts have taken two wins and a draw since league action resumed and have won four of the last five home meetings between the sides.

By 7MTHScore Staff

Recommendation: 1X2 – Home win

Team news

In addition to several injured players, Botafogo will also be without young midfielder Hugo, who is suspended.

Fluminense have several centre-backs sidelined through injury, including Milan, James Ribeiro and Thiago Silva.

Botafogo

Suspended: Hugo (yellow-card accumulation)

Doubtful: None

Injured/Unavailable: Julia Santos (calf), Allan Loureiro (right thigh), Pendarillo (left knee)

Fluminense

Suspended: None

Doubtful: None

Injured/Unavailable: Milan (right thigh), James Ribeiro (right thigh), Thiago Silva (right thigh), Matheus Reis (right knee)

Botafogo's scheduled league match against Gremio was rearranged because their opponents were involved in the Copa Sudamericana. In their most recent league outing, Botafogo earned a narrow 1-0 away win over Cruzeiro. Faka Lin Carvalho's side withstood heavy pressure before defender Justiniano scored the decisive goal to secure all three points. Since league action resumed after the Club World Cup, Botafogo have recorded two wins and one draw, taking their tally to 29 points and moving up to eighth place.

Fluminense drew 0-0 at home to Bahia in their previous league match. Subidia's side disappointed the home supporters after new striker Hulk missed an opportunity to score the winner. Their injury-hit defence was also placed under sustained pressure, forcing goalkeeper Fabio to produce a crucial performance. Fluminense are winless in their last five league games, leaving their hopes of qualifying for next season's Copa Libertadores in jeopardy.

The two squads appear evenly matched, and both teams are competing for a place in next season's Copa Libertadores. However, Botafogo have home advantage, while Fluminense are missing several defensive players. With those factors in mind, a Botafogo home win is the recommended pick.

Head-to-head

Botafogo have won four and lost one of their last five home matches against Fluminense.