Palmeiras vs Santos FC Prediction: Victory for the Greens
Round 32 of the Brasileirão kicks off at the Allianz Parque, where Palmeiras will face Santos FC. The earlier fixture between these two sides, initially scheduled for June, was postponed. This encounter marks their first meeting of the season.
Team Form and Context
Santos FC, currently sitting in 16th place with 33 points from 30 matches, have recently climbed out of the relegation zone after spending more than six weeks in danger. Their turnaround began after parting ways with manager Cleber Xavier, whose stint ended following a heavy 6-0 defeat to Vasco da Gama. During his 15 matches in charge, the team recorded five wins, four draws, and six losses.
New coach Juan Pablo has since guided the squad from a desperate state to relative stability, gradually restoring pride and confidence in the camp.
Recent Performances
Santos FC secured an impressive 3-1 derby victory over Corinthians Paulista, avenging their 1-0 loss from May. Their narrow defeat to Vitoria showed improvement, and a hard-fought 2-2 draw with Botafogo further demonstrated resilience in crucial moments.
In their recent match against Fortaleza, Santos FC came from behind to earn a 1-1 draw, equalizing in the 74th minute after conceding shortly before halftime.
“Juan Pablo picked the team from a desperate situation, and since then, has pulled the team through media mockery to simple decency.”
Palmeiras, meanwhile, approach this match as firm favorites, aiming to capitalize on their home advantage and strength in depth to secure the expected win over a revitalized, yet inconsistent, Santos FC.
Author’s Summary
Santos FC have shown steady recovery under Juan Pablo, but facing Palmeiras at home presents a major challenge likely to tilt in favor of the hosts.