Early Bird Tips for South America: Momentum the message over in Brazil
South American expert Nathan Joyes returns with a trio of early bird tips for Brazil’s Serie A this weekend. Palmeiras’ impressive title charge continues vs Internacional, Gremio look to continue pushing teams close, while Santos are the main focus at the bottom.
- Palmeiras vs Internacional: Palmeiras and Over 1.5 Match Goals
- Gremio vs Corinthians: Gremio to Win
- Santos vs Sao Paulo: Santos Draw No Bet
Acca odds: 6.80
Odds via bet365 as at 09:00, 7th November 2023. Odds may now differ.
Palmeiras vs Internacional: Title in sight for hosts
Brazil, Serie A, Sunday November 12th, 00:00 (UK)
At the time of writing, Botafogo’s lead has been cut from 15 points to 0. Palmeiras’ outrageous 4-3 win and comeback against the long-time league leaders has seen the momentum swing firmly in the holders’ favour.
A tricky tie against Flamengo awaits before this fixture, but with Brazilian sensation Endrick leading the line, they have every chance of lifting the title once again.
With three goals in his last two matches against Botafogo and Athletico PR, he’s almost single-handedly brought Palmeiras back into this title race. At 17, he’s also just been called up to the Brazilian national team – his performances have been that good.
Fans have been calling for Endrick to feature more and more all season long, and now Abel Fereira has finally given him the opportunity. It may just save his blushes.
Inter has drastically improved in recent weeks, and they have pulled away from the relegation zone. However, a trip to Allianz Parque is arguably the toughest in the league, and with Palmeiras on a hot winning streak, who are scoring for fun, there’s only one side you should be backing.
Gremio vs Corinthians: Suarez looking to deliver sucker punch on Sunday
Brazil, Serie A, Sunday November 12th, 19:00 (UK)
Gremio’s title charge is still very much on – although a trip to Botafogo on Thursday is a crucial result to keep a lookout for.
However, prior to that match, they’ve won their last four matches – scoring plenty of goals. Ten goals and maximum points, which includes a 3-2 victory over Flamengo, indicates they aren’t out of this title race just yet.
Having just been promoted back from Serie B, this has been one mightily impressive season for Gremio, and it’s their star striker they have to thank.
Luis Suarez, despite 36, has scored 11 goals and contributed ten assists this season – a key reason why they have been so strong at home. In fact, they’ve won six of their last seven in front of their own supporters.
Corinthians, on the other hand, are not out of the woods yet. Although three points above the relegation zone, their away form has been rather concerning.
Although they only lost 1-0 to Bragantino, they were battered for large periods of the match. Their recent 1-0 victory over Cuiaba was their first away win in the league since July – and their first in 10 in all competitions.
These two sides played out an incredible 4-4 when they met in September, and with both sides desperate for points at both ends of the table, goals are likely to be on the menu.
However, there’s so much at stake for Gremio, and back at home, the advantage is with the hosts, who can’t be ignored at their current price.
Santos vs São Paulo: Santos to dig deep once more
Brazil, Serie A, Sunday November 12th, 21:30 (UK)
Despite looking dead and buried at plenty of points this season, Santos are still keeping their heads above water. In fact, since their disastrous 7-1 defeat to Inter, they’ve gone four matches unbeaten.
Every time they look down and out, they find a way to respond, which is a testament to their character – despite a season of chaos. However, a last-minute draw away to Corinthians before beating Flamengo were both massively impressive – and results which could keep them safe.
It’s been very hit-and-miss at home, but recent wins over relegation rivals Vasco and Coritiba show they relish playing in front of their supporters rather than feeling the pressure.
Sao Paulo’s season has been a strange one. Copa do Brasil champions and the fifth-best record at home in Serie A. However, on the road, it’s been nothing short of embarrassing.
Their away form is joint bottom with America MG, collecting just seven points from 15 matches. They’ve scored just nine goals (the fewest in the league) and have shipped in 22. It’s been like chalk and cheese – and it’s hard to understand.
With no away wins all year, it looks a distinct possibility they could go all year without one. Santos are fighting and showing real credibility since their 7-1 defeat, and so it makes sense to back the team with the momentum.
- Selection: Santos Draw No Bet
- Best Odds: 1.825
- Bookmaker: bet365
- Stakes: 8/10
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