Criciuma vs Botafogo RJ prediction 22.06.2024

• Competition: Serie A
• Date: Saturday, 22nd June 2024
• Kickoff: 20:00 UTC +1 / 21:00 CEST
• Venue: Estádio Heriberto Hülse (Criciúma)

Criciuma have one of the smallest budgets in the Brazilian Serie A, so their only goal for 2024 is to avoid relegation. After eight league rounds, they have amassed a respectable nine points, placing them two points clear of the relegation zone. Their season began promisingly with five points from the first three matches, but they encountered a slump, managing only one point in the subsequent four games. However, they turned the tide in the previous round with an impressive 2-1 away victory against Atletico GO. 

Most pundits expected Botafogo RJ to be much closer to the middle of the table than the best teams in the competitions but after ten matches, Artur Jorge's team tallied twenty points, so they are at the top of the league. Botafogo RJ are without a defeat in the previous nine matches in all competitions. In the last game, they played 1-1 at home against Athletico PR. Although losing almost the whole second half, Botafogo RJ showcased their resilience and determination to maintain their strong position in the league. Jorge's team scored deep into the second half's stoppage time and secured another point. 

Criciuma vs Botafogo RJ pick: Both teams to score - yes

Both teams scored in each of the previous five Criciuma games. On the other hand, Botafogo RJ have scored regularly (in each of the previous four games). Both teams to score - yes should be the best bet for this tie.