Palmeiras v Bahia could decide top spot, find out why | OneFootball

Palmeiras takes the field this Sunday (5) against Bahia at Arena Fonte Nova in Salvador in a direct clash that could impact the lead in the Brazilian Championship.

Top of the competition with 22 points from nine matches, Verdão will try to stay in first place against an opponent that sits right behind them in the table and still has a game in hand.

Bahia could become the “virtual leader”

Bahia has 17 points from eight matches and currently sits in fourth place, behind Fluminense and São Paulo, both on 20 points and already in action this round, meaning they have played 10 matches. Palmeiras, the leader, has 22 points.

As it has a game in hand due to the postponement of a match because of the Copa Libertadores qualifying stage, the team from Bahia could take on a kind of “virtual lead” with a win over Palmeiras.

If they win, Bahia would reach 20 points and improve their points percentage, surpassing Verdão’s rate even while still trailing in the official standings.

Palmeiras defends top spot

From Palmeiras’ side, the goal is to hold on to the lead. With seven wins, one draw and one loss, the team coached by Abel Ferreira is looking to widen the gap over its closest rivals.

An away win would prevent any more direct approach from Bahia and keep Palmeiras alone in first place – Verdão would move to 25 points, compared to 20 for Fluminense and São Paulo.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.