Jason Collins
Dailysports's expert
In the 36th round of Brazil's Serie B, Vila Nova faces Ponte Preta in a match where both teams are in need of positive results. Here's my prediction for this encounter – can we expect a competitive showdown?
- Also read: Racing Club vs Independiente Rivadavia prediction, H2H & Probable Line-ups - November 11, 2024
Vila Nova
This season, Vila Nova had the potential to challenge for promotion, but a rough patch, including three losses in their last four matches, has dampened their hopes. They now sit in eighth place, trailing the top four by seven points with just three matches left, making a comeback practically impossible. In their latest match, Vila Nova fell 0-3 to leaders Santos, conceding twice in added time. Their current form is shaky, and motivation may be low given their position.
Ponte Preta
With three matches remaining, Ponte Preta finds themselves in a precarious spot, sitting 17th and occupying a relegation position, just one point shy of safety with an additional game in hand. In their last outing, Ponte Preta hosted fellow strugglers Paysandu. After trading goals in the first half, they were reduced to 10 men early in the second and ultimately lost 1-2. This defeat marked their fourth in their last five games, further intensifying their relegation battle.
Probable Line-ups
- Vila Nova: Denis Junior, Dankler, Hemmes, Vanderlei, Rhuan, Arilson, Cristiano, Apodi, Alesson, Junior Todinho, Emerson Urso.
- Ponte Preta: Pedro Rocha, Luis Felipe, Mateus, Nilson Junior, Vasconcelos, Castro, Emerson Santos, Elvis, Iago Dias, Gabriel Novaes, Renato.
Match Facts
- Vila Nova has been outstanding at home, with just one loss in 17 home games, alongside 12 wins and four draws.
- Ponte Preta has struggled on the road, winning only once, with six draws and ten losses.
Odds
- Vila Nova Win: 1.8
- Draw: 3.5
- Ponte Preta Win: 4.7
Head-to-Head
Vila Nova hasn’t won in their last eight meetings against Ponte Preta, with six of those games ending in draws.
Prediction
While Vila Nova is considered the favorite based on league standing and home performance, Ponte Preta's stronger motivation to avoid relegation may drive a competitive performance. Both teams have been inconsistent, suggesting a potentially unpredictable game. I see value in betting on a double chance (X2), backing Ponte Preta to either win or draw.
