Atlético-MG and Botafogo Clash Ahead of Libertadores Final

The anticipation is building as Brazilian football giants Atlético Mineiro and Botafogo prepare to face each other in the 34th round of the Série A of the Campeonato Brasileiro. This fixture serves as a preview for their upcoming showdown in the Copa Libertadores final. The match is scheduled for Wednesday, November 20, 2024, at 9:30 PM (Brasília time) at the Estádio Independência in Belo Horizonte.

This game comes amidst significant challenges for Atlético-MG, commonly referred to as «Galo,» who are currently navigating through a tough phase with a seven-match winless streak. The team last recorded a victory against River Plate in the semifinals of the Conmebol Libertadores on October 22, 2024.

The match will be played behind closed doors following a decision by the Superior Court of Sports Justice (STJD) to punish Atlético Mineiro due to disturbances during the Copa do Brasil final against Flamengo. As a result, the traditional Atletico home ground, Arena MRV, remains off-limits.

Botafogo, on the other hand, enters the game in robust form, having avoided defeats in the last 11 Série A match rounds. They currently hold a four-point lead at the top of the table, aiming to secure the national title prior to their continental commitments.

Manager Gabriel Milito of Atlético-MG faces team selection dilemmas, with key players like Guilherme Arana and Cadu out due to injuries. Additionally, Junior Alonso, Alan Franco, and Eduardo Vargas are not available due to international duties. Milito indicated possible tactical shifts to combat the ongoing technical slump, with Paulinho expected to return to the lineup.

The predicted lineup for Atlético-MG includes Everson; Saravia, Battaglia, Lyanco, and either Rubens or Alisson; Otávio, Fausto Vera, Gustavo Scarpa, and Bernard or Zaracho/Deyverson; alongside Paulinho and Hulk.

Botafogo presents a more stable roster with fewer selection issues. Under the tutelage of Arthur Jorge, the team travels to Belo Horizonte with confidence, although mindful of managing players fatigued from international fixtures.

Linesman Luiz Flávio de Oliveira will officiate the match. The game will be broadcasted live on sportv and Premiere channels, with comprehensive coverage available on various online platforms such as GloboPlay for subscribers.

As both teams engage in this crucial encounter, the outcome may provide significant insights into their upcoming continental clash while influencing the domestic league standings.