Avai vs Palmeiras Predictions

• Both teams have scored in each of the last five Avai home league games.
• After four straight clean sheets, Palmeiras have conceded in each of their last three matches.
• Both teams have scored in the last three league meetings between the clubs in Florianopolis.
• This game comes a few days before Palmeiras travel to Paraguay for a Copa Libertadores last-16 tie.

Leaders could be caught looking by adventurous Avai

Brasileirao leaders Palmeiras have built a three-point cushion for themselves and it could come in handy over the next few weeks as their schedule starts to get a little crazier. Periquito Verde head to Florianopolis to take on mid-table Avai before getting off to Paraguay next week for the first leg of their Copa Libertadores last-16 tie against Cerro Porteno.

The later is no doubt Palmeiras coach Abel Ferreira’s priority this week, although he will want to keep something in reserve for their subsequent home league game against third-placed Athletico-PR. On the back of a difficult Brazilian cup defeat to Sao Paulo, he will want to regain their momentum with a win, but Avai are in decent form and can force a draw.

Eduardo Barroca’s side have won four of their six home contests this term, albeit all against teams now in the bottom half of the table, but they were able to grab a 1-1 draw against Sao Paulo too. Avai were undone by individual defensive errors against Fluminense last time out, but the coach is refusing to back down from an adventurous approach that has seen them score 11 times at home already – more than five clubs above them in the table.

Palmeiras’ parsimonious defence is leaking  

Given the games are coming thick and fast for Palmeiras, while Avai have had a full week to prepare, this shouldn’t be written off as a foregone conclusion.

Both teams to score looks a safer way in as promoted Avai have proven to be reliable goalscorers at home this term, bagging in all six. BTTS has landed in their last five home contests and, despite possessing the best defensive record in the league, Palmeiras have just sprung a leak at the back – conceding in each of their last three in all competitions.

Avai can hold out for a 1-1 draw if Palmeiras try to save something for their bigger battles to come.

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