This Saturday night, Brazilian Serie A leaders Palmeiras host Vasco da Gama at the Allianz Parque, as the home side looks to maintain their lead at the top of the table.
Palmeiras have started the season in good form, winning eight of their 11 Serie A outings and suffering just one defeat in the process.
However, the home sides title challenge is in danger of going off the rails after a recent draw against Sao Paulo and a surprise 2-0 defeat against Ceara last time out.
Prior to the recent disappointing results, Palmeiras built their lead at the top of the table on strong defensive displays. The home side has now conceded in their last two games, but their record of eight clean sheets in Serie A this season is still an impressive one.
Talking about impressive, we move onto Palmeiras’ recent home record. Not only are the home side unbeaten in 20 home matches in Serie A, but they have also recorded 18 straight home league wins.
Once again, their defensive displays have been key to that good strong run of home form, having kept clean sheets in seven of their last eight home games, including their last five matches.
Vasco da Gama have started their Serie A campaign in a poor fashion and currently lie 15th place in the Brazilian top-flight. However, the visitor's form has shown signs of turning around in recent weeks, as they have won three of their last four league games.
The victories have moved Vasco three points above the relegation zone. The visitors cannot relax, though, as they could easily be dragged back into the fight for survival if results go against them this weekend.
Palmeiras are formidable opponents on home soil, but Vasco looks to be finding form. Forebet predicts that Palmeiras will record a victory in a low-scoring encounter.