Athletico-PR vs Vitória Prediction: The Paranaenses can't fail

Athletico-PR and Vitória will meet at the Ligga Arena in a crucial game for both sides, as they are in a delicate situation in the league. The Paranaenses find themselves in 16th place with 34 points, one place above the relegation zone but with the same points as Bragantino, who is in the Z4. Vitória isn't much better with 35 points. The Brasileirão is entering its final stretch and every single point matters.

The Hurricane finally won in the Série A after 11 games, ending a terrible period that saw the team drop to the bottom of the table. The fastest red card in the history of the Brasilierão, shown to Cruzeiro's Rafa Silva after just three seconds, helped Athletico to a 3-0 victory. Pablo, Julimar, and Nikão scored the goals for the home side, who finally gave their fans something to cheer about. It was also Lucho González's first win as coach of the Curitiba side. Against Vitória, a direct opponent, only victory matters to get out of the danger zone.

Tipped at the start of the season as among the stronger candidates for relegation, the Baianos continue to fight bravely and beat Fluminense at home 2-1. It was their second win in a row and third in five games. Thiago Carpini's men have shown, especially at home, that they don't fear the biggest clubs in Brazil. It won't be easy to bring points back to Salvador against Athletico, but Vitória will fight until the end.

It's an essential game for both sides, as they are involved in a terrible battle to avoid relegation. Half the clubs in the league are not comfortable in the standings, and any point gained could be decisive. Athletico and Vitória won their matches in the last round, and in the case of the Paranaenses, the result ended a long winless streak. It was the first win for the team under Lucho González. I'm backing Athletico to win in a stadium with many home fans in the stands.