Botafogo RJ vs. Atletico MG Prediction, Match Preview, and Betting Tips, 20 September 2025

The upcoming Serie A clash between Botafogo RJ and Atletico MG promises to be a fascinating encounter. Scheduled for 22:30 on 20 September 2025, this match features a high-flying Botafogo RJ, currently fifth with 36 points, taking on the struggling Atletico MG, who sit 13th with 25 points.

Botafogo RJ comes off a dramatic 3-3 draw against Mirassol, a game which saw them initially lead 3-0 before a controversial VAR decision turned the tide. Despite recent criticism of their coach Davide Ancelotti, Botafogo has shown resilience.

Atletico MG is grappling with injury woes, including the long-term loss of forward Cuello. Their recent form is a mixed bag, reflected by a 2-2 draw against Bolivar.

Given Botafogo RJ’s strong home form and Atletico MG’s inconsistencies, the recommended bet leans toward a Botafogo RJ win.

Enjoy the football and keep an eye on Jefferson Savarino and Hulk, both top scorers for their respective teams with four goals each!

Botafogo RJ vs Atletico MG Prediction & Betting Tip

Given the current form and standings, our recommended betting tip is to back Botafogo RJ to win this match.

• High Confidence: Botafogo RJ is ranked fifth in Serie A with 36 points and has demonstrated a solid form, particularly at home.
• Strong Recent Performance: Despite a challenging 3-3 draw against Mirassol, Botafogo RJ showcased their scoring capability by leading 3-0 initially.
• Atletico MG’s Struggles: Atletico MG sits in the 13th spot with 25 points and is contending with injuries and inconsistent performances, including a recent 2-2 draw against Bolivar.

Therefore, considering the form, rankings, and recent performances of both teams, Botafogo RJ is the safer bet for this matchup!

Botafogo RJ vs Atletico MG Odds

Let’s take a closer look at the odds for this Serie A match. Botafogo RJ is the favourite, given their higher league position and recent form, while Atletico MG has been struggling and dealing with significant injuries.

Botafogo RJ, currently 5th in the league and showing strong home form, is favoured by the bookmakers with odds at 1.66.
A draw is considered less likely with odds at 3.54, while an Atletico MG win, given their 13th position and recent struggles, is viewed as the least probable outcome, with odds at 5.37.
With Botafogo RJ’s solid performance and Atletico MG’s recent form issues, the odds reflect a clear inclination towards a home victory.

Botafogo RJ Team Analysis

Botafogo RJ Recent Performance:

Botafogo RJ’s recent form has been a mixed bag with a record of Draw, Win, Loss, Loss, and Draw in their last five matches. Their latest game ended in a dramatic 3-3 draw against Mirassol, a match where they initially led 3-0 but were unable to maintain their lead.
Despite a lack of clean sheets in their last five games, Botafogo RJ has been potent in attack, averaging 2.40 goals per game. Key to their offensive prowess has been Jefferson Savarino, who has emerged as their top scorer with 4 goals.
However, failure to convert leads into wins and defensive frailties have been points of concern for coach Davide Ancelotti and the Botafogo faithful.

Botafogo RJ Key Players

Botafogo RJ has several key players who could make a significant impact in the upcoming match. Jefferson Savarino stands out as the top scorer with 4 goals, underpinning the team’s attacking strength. Additionally, Spanish forward Christopher Ramos, who recently scored in the dramatic 3-3 draw against Mirassol, will be vital.
Midfielders like Santiago Rodríguez and Marlon Freitas are expected to control the tempo and provide the link between defense and attack.
Expected lineup for Botafogo RJ:

• Goalkeeper: Léo Linck
• Defenders: Vitinho, Kaio, Alexander Barboza, Alex Telles
• Midfielders: Marlon Freitas, Danilo, Santiago Rodríguez, Jefferson Savarino, Alvaro Montoro
• Center forward: Christopher Ramos

The individual battles between Savarino and Atletico MG’s defenders could be crucial in determining the game’s outcome.

Botafogo RJ Suspensions & Injuries

Injuries are currently a significant concern for Botafogo RJ, with several key players sidelined.

• Bastos: Knee injury, possible return in early October 2025.
• Nathan Fernandes: Broken arm, likely back in early October 2025.
• Arthur Cabral: Leg injury, expected to return in 1-2 weeks.
• Artur: Muscle injury, also expected back in 1-2 weeks.
• Neto: Thigh injury, ruled out for the season.

These injuries could impact the squad depth, particularly in the midfield and attacking departments. The absence of steady performers like Neto means coach Davide Ancelotti will need to rely more on his available squad members, further testing their resilience and adaptability.

Botafogo RJ Tactics and Formation

Botafogo RJ, under the guidance of coach Davide Ancelotti, primarily employs a 4-2-3-1 formation, focusing on a balanced approach between attack and defense.

Botafogo RJ Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-2-3-1
• Key Forward: Christopher Ramos – potent in attack and scored recently against Mirassol.
• Midfield Orchestra: Marlon Freitas and Danilo holding the fort with Santiago Rodríguez orchestrating the plays.
• Defensive Line: Vitinho and Alex Telles as full-backs, Kaio and Alexander Barboza as central defenders, aiming to tighten up a defense that hasn’t kept a clean sheet in the last five games.
• Strategy: With an average of 2.40 goals scored in their last five matches, Botafogo RJ emphasizes a high press and quick counter-attacks. Jefferson Savarino, their top scorer, is pivotal in breaking down the opposition’s defense with his agility and vision.

These tactics aim to exploit Atletico MG’s defensive frailties and capitalize on their current injury woes.

Atletico MG Team Analysis

Atletico MG Recent Performance:

Atletico MG’s recent form has been less than stellar, marked by three losses and two draws in their last five matches. Notably, their recent 2-2 draw against Bolivar showcased both their resilience and defensive vulnerabilities.

Key points from their latest performances:

• Average Goals Scored: Atletico MG has averaged just 0.60 goals per game in their last five outings, highlighting their struggles in front of goal.
• Defensive Struggles: They have not kept a single clean sheet in these matches, indicating ongoing issues in their backline.
• Injury Woes: The absence of forward Cuello due to a severe injury adds to their challenges, as reflected in their inconsistent performances.

These factors have contributed to their current standing at 13th in the league with 25 points, a position they will be eager to improve upon but will find challenging against a higher-ranked Botafogo RJ.

Atletico MG Key Players

Atletico MG will be relying heavily on their star players to turn their fortunes around in this challenging fixture. Despite the recent injury to Tomás Cuello, who was a key player, they still have noteworthy talent on the pitch.

• Top Scorer: Hulk, with 4 goals, remains their most potent threat in front of goal. His experience and physical presence can be game-changers.
• Midfield Maestro: Gustavo Scarpa will be expected to control the midfield, linking defense and attack while providing creative spark.
• Solid Defense: Junior Alonso provides stability at the back, though the defense as a whole must improve to stop leaking goals.

Expected lineup for Atletico MG:

• Goalkeeper: Everson
• Defenders: Natanael, Lyanco, Junior Alonso, Guilherme Arana
• Midfielders: Fausto Vera, Alan Franco, Gustavo Scarpa
• Forwards: Rony, Hulk, Dudu

Key battles on the pitch include Hulk against Botafogo’s centre-backs and Scarpa orchestrating the midfield against Marlon Freitas and Danilo.

Atletico MG Suspensions & Injuries

Atletico MG is stepping into this match with significant injury concerns and a suspension that could impact their performance:

• Tomás Cuello: Suffered a severe injury with a fractured fibula and ligament rupture, sidelining him until next season.
• Caio Maia: Is out with a cruciate ligament injury, aiming for an early October return.
• Cadu: Recovering from knee surgery, expected back in about a week.
• Patrick Silva: Nursing a back injury, with a potential return within 1-2 weeks.
• Renzo Saravia: Down with a muscle injury, also aiming for a return in 1-2 weeks.
• Alexsander: Suspended for the match due to yellow card accumulation.

These absences will test Atletico MG’s squad depth and resilience, particularly affecting their midfield and attacking options.

Atletico MG Tactics and Formation

Atletico MG, under the tutelage of coach Jorge Sampaoli, typically deploys a dynamic 4-3-3 formation, aiming for flexibility and control in both offensive and defensive phases.

Atletico MG Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-3-3
• Key Forward: Hulk – a seasoned striker responsible for leading the line and creating scoring opportunities.
• Midfield Trio: Alan Franco, Gustavo Scarpa, and Fausto Vera – tasked with maintaining possession and orchestrating attacks.
• Defensive Core: Junior Alonso and Lyanco in central defense must tighten up a backline that has yet to keep a clean sheet in their last five matches.
• Notable Strategy: Strong emphasis on wing play and high pressing, aiming to disrupt the opposition early and capitalize on turnovers.

The team’s tactical flexibility allows them to adapt during the match, but injuries and suspensions might force Sampaoli to rethink his approach.

Botafogo RJ vs Atletico MG Head-to-Head Statistics

Analysing the last five encounters between Botafogo RJ and Atletico MG reveals a competitive history:

• 2025-04-20 (Serie A): Atletico MG 1 – 0 Botafogo RJ
• 2024-11-30 (Copa Libertadores Final Stage): Atletico MG 1 – 3 Botafogo RJ
• 2024-11-21 (Serie A): Atletico MG 0 – 0 Botafogo RJ
• 2024-07-07 (Serie A): Botafogo RJ 3 – 0 Atletico MG
• 2023-09-17 (Serie A): Atletico MG 1 – 0 Botafogo RJ

Of these matches, Botafogo RJ have won two, Atletico MG have taken two victories, and one game ended in a draw.
This mixed record reflects the competitive nature of their clashes. In recent memory, Botafogo RJ pulled off a significant 3-1 win in the Copa Libertadores, showcasing their ability to perform on big occasions. Conversely, Atletico MG’s resilience was evident in their narrow 1-0 victory earlier this year.
The upcoming match promises to add another interesting chapter to their head-to-head history.

Odds accurate as of 18.09.2025 22:31, and are subject to change. Please always check the odds before placing your bets with any bookmaker.