America MG vs Palmeiras Predictions, Betting Tips and Match Previews

Sunday’s Brazilian Serie A action sees America Mineiro going head to head with Palmeiras. A close game is expected to be in order at the Estádio Independência.

Hosts America arrive in great spirits after an excellent week. Coelho first ended a run of 1 point from 5 matches by picking up an impressive home victory over Internacional and then went on to record a rare away triumph at Santos, lifting the side away from relegation waters and into the top half, standing 10th at the time of asking.

Considering America’s sole aim for the campaign is to remain in the top flight, to be sitting where they are represents good work but with just a 4 point margin between themselves on the drop zone, they know they cannot afford to rest on their laurels and continuing their strong recent showings is the target. With Palmeiras in town, that’ll certainly not be easy but there’s reason to believe the hosts can give the visitors a run for their money on Sunday, having lost just 2 of their 8 home league matches this season.

Meanwhile, Palmeiras will finally have new boss Luis Felipe Scolari in the dugout. Scolari, a popular choice with fans for previous work he’s done at the club, was appointed last week after Roger Machado was sacked but delayed his arrival, meaning caretaker boss Wesley Carvalho oversaw Verdao’s 3-0 home win over Parana last weekend and a midweek 0-0 draw at Bahia in the cup.

For a team that was one of, if not the, favourite for the title at the beginning of the campaign, Palmeiras don’t really find themselves in a good position. Sitting 6th, with 26 points from 16 games, the visitors are already 8 points behind leaders Flamengo and cannot afford to drop too many more points, something they’ve been doing far too often in recent weeks, winning just 2 of their last 6 Serie A matches.

Ultimately, whilst Palmeiras undoubtedly have the more talented squad of the two and are the stronger team on paper, we cannot see America rolling over for them and a close, hard-fought 90 minutes looks to be in order.

Palmeiras have not won any of their last 4 away games across all competitions and having drawn 3 of said matches, backing the spoils to be shared on Sunday really appeals and that’s where our money is going. Palmeiras are priced as favourites but with just 1 win in 7 on the road behind them, it’d take a brave man to back them and we think America can hold them to a 1-1 draw.