Grêmio vs Botafogo RJ Prediction, Match Preview, Thursday, 5 February

In the upcoming Serie A clash, Grêmio will face Botafogo RJ on Thursday, 5 February. This match promises to be an intriguing encounter as both teams aim to strengthen their positions in the league. Although the venue details are not specified, the focus will be on how Grêmio, playing at home, can leverage their familiarity with the conditions against Botafogo RJ.

Grêmio has shown resilience in their recent performances, while Botafogo RJ will be keen to secure a crucial away victory. This matchup is significant as it could impact the standings in Serie A, with both teams eager to gain an advantage. As we look ahead to this fixture, the dynamics between these two Brazilian sides promise an engaging contest.

Grêmio vs Botafogo RJ Prediction & Betting Tip

Betting Tip	Odds
Botafogo RJ Double Chance (Win or Draw)	1.55

Given the current form and circumstances, our recommended betting tip is Botafogo RJ Double Chance (Win or Draw). The odds for this market are attractive, around 1.55, reflecting the solid position Botafogo RJ holds coming into this match.

• Botafogo RJ have scored in 6 consecutive matches in this competition, indicating a consistent attacking threat.
• Botafogo RJ have a strong head-to-head record against Grêmio, including a win and a draw in their last two encounters.
• Grêmio’s squad is weakened by injuries, notably affecting their key players, while Botafogo RJ have a more settled line-up.

Betting Odds

Grêmio enter the match as favourites with odds of 2.27, but don’t count out Botafogo RJ just yet. With odds of 3.18, the visitors are certainly in with a chance, especially given their recent performances. The draw is also a tempting option at 3.12, reflecting the tight nature of this Serie A encounter.

Betting Tip	Odds
Grêmio to win	2.27
Draw	3.12
Botafogo RJ to win	3.18

For those looking to place a wager, consider the potential for both teams to find the back of the net, given their attacking capabilities. This match is shaping up to be a cracker, and the betting odds suggest a closely fought contest.

Grêmio Analysis & Past Performance

Grêmio have demonstrated mixed form in their recent outings. Over the last five matches, they have managed two wins, two losses, and one draw, highlighting a balanced but inconsistent run. Notable performances include a commanding 5-0 victory over São Luiz and a solid 2-0 win against Guarany de Bagé, showcasing their ability to dominate games when in control.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Grêmio	Juventude	1 – 1 (Draw)	Gaucho Championship	31 Jan 2026
Fluminense	Grêmio	2 – 1 (Loss)	Serie A	28 Jan 2026
Internacional	Grêmio	4 – 2 (Loss)	Gaucho Championship	25 Jan 2026
Guarany de Bagé	Grêmio	0 – 2 (Win)	Gaucho Championship	22 Jan 2026
Grêmio	São Luiz	5 – 0 (Win)	Gaucho Championship	17 Jan 2026

Recent Form:
Grêmio’s attacking prowess has been a key aspect of their gameplay, averaging 2.20 goals per match in their last five fixtures. However, defensively, they have conceded an average of 1.40 goals per game, indicating potential vulnerabilities at the back. They’ve managed to keep two clean sheets during this period, underscoring a somewhat inconsistent defensive solidity.

At home, Grêmio’s performance mirrors their overall form, with two wins, two losses, and one draw in their last five home games. They currently hold 14th position in the standings, reflecting a lower mid-table status. Despite this, their ability to score in all of their recent matches suggests potential for resurgence if defensive issues are addressed.

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Grêmio Suspensions & Injuries

Grêmio face the upcoming match against Botafogo RJ with a few significant absences due to injury. Mathías Villasanti’s cruciate ligament injury will keep him out until early May 2026, stripping the midfield of his dynamic presence. Martin Braithwaite and Walter Kannemann are both expected to return by mid-February, but their current absence leaves Grêmio without two experienced figures in attack and defence, respectively.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Mathías Villasanti	Cruciate ligament injury	Early May 2026
Martin Braithwaite	Achilles tendon injury	Mid February 2026
Walter Kannemann	Thigh injury	Mid February 2026

The absence of Braithwaite and Kannemann means that Grêmio will have to rely on their depth to fill these gaps. Players like Ferreira and Geromel might be called upon to step up, offering a mix of youth and experience. This could lead to a more conservative strategy, focusing on maintaining defensive solidity while looking for counter-attacking opportunities.

These injuries could influence the betting odds, as Grêmio’s weakened lineup might lead to a tighter match than expected against Botafogo RJ. The team’s ability to adapt to these absences will be crucial in maintaining their competitive edge in Serie A.

Grêmio Key Players

Grêmio’s attacking threat will be spearheaded by their top scorer Carlos Vinícius, who has netted 1 goal this season. Vinícius, known for his physical presence and clinical finishing, is expected to lead the line against Botafogo RJ. His ability to hold up play and bring teammates into the attack will be crucial for Grêmio’s offensive strategy.

In midfield, Arthur and Edenílson are key figures, providing the necessary balance between defence and attack. Arthur’s vision and passing accuracy make him the playmaker, orchestrating the team’s movements. Edenílson’s work rate and ability to break up opposition play are vital, offering defensive solidity and creativity. On the wings, Tetê and Francis Amuzu bring pace and flair, essential for stretching the opposition’s defence.

Expected lineup for Grêmio

• Goalkeeper: Weverton
• Defenders: João Pedro, Gustavo Martins, Wagner Leonardo, Marlon
• Midfielders: Dodi, Arthur, Edenílson
• Forwards: Tetê, Francis Amuzu, Carlos Vinícius

Defensively, Grêmio rely on the solid partnership of Gustavo Martins and Wagner Leonardo at the back. Their understanding and communication are essential for maintaining a strong defensive line. Gustavo Martins’ aerial ability and Wagner Leonardo’s tackling skills are expected to be significant in thwarting Botafogo’s attacking threats.

Grêmio Tactics and Formation

Grêmio Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-3-3
• Key Forward: Carlos Vinícius
• Midfield Core: Dynamic and aggressive
• Defensive Record: No clean sheets in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: High pressing and quick transitional play.

Grêmio are expected to line up in a 4-3-3 formation, providing a balanced approach between attack and defence. The midfield trio plays a critical role, with an emphasis on maintaining high energy and aggressive pressing to disrupt opponents’ build-up play.

Defensively, Grêmio have struggled to keep clean sheets, conceding in each of their last five matches. The defensive line will need to tighten up, especially against a Botafogo RJ side known for their attacking prowess. The full-backs are likely to push forward, creating potential vulnerabilities at the back.

Offensively, Grêmio’s strategy focuses on high pressing and exploiting quick transitions. Carlos Vinícius, their key forward, is expected to lead the line, supported by wingers who can stretch the opposition and create space. Despite recent draws and losses, Grêmio have shown potential in their attacking phases, scoring in every recent match.

Botafogo RJ Analysis & Past Performance

Botafogo RJ have demonstrated a mixed bag of results in their recent form, with three wins and two losses in their last five matches. The team’s recent performances include a commanding 4-0 victory over Cruzeiro and a narrow 1-0 defeat to Fluminense. Despite these ups and downs, Botafogo RJ have accumulated 9 points from their last five games, showcasing their resilience and ability to secure crucial wins.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Botafogo RJ	Fluminense	0 – 1 (Loss)	Carioca Taca Guanabara	1 Feb 2026
Botafogo RJ	Cruzeiro	4 – 0 (Win)	Serie A	30 Jan 2026
Botafogo RJ	Bangu	2 – 0 (Win)	Carioca Taca Guanabara	25 Jan 2026
Botafogo RJ	Volta Redonda	1 – 0 (Win)	Carioca Taca Guanabara	21 Jan 2026
Sampaio Corrêa RJ	Botafogo RJ	2 – 1 (Loss)	Carioca Taca Guanabara	18 Jan 2026

Recent Form:

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Botafogo RJ’s attack has been relatively efficient, averaging 1.60 goals per match in their last five games, with a total of 8 goals scored. Their defence has been robust as well, conceding only 3 goals and keeping 3 clean sheets during this period. However, their away performance has been less convincing, with only 1 win out of their last 5 away matches, resulting in a win ratio of 0.20. As they prepare to face Grêmio, Botafogo RJ will aim to improve their away form and maintain their position at the top of the league standings.

Botafogo RJ Suspensions & Injuries

Botafogo RJ face a challenging situation with several key players unavailable due to injury. The absence of Kaio, who is sidelined with a cruciate ligament injury until mid-June 2026, is a significant blow to their defensive stability. Additionally, Fernando Marçal’s sprained knee injury leaves his participation in doubt, further complicating the defensive setup.

With Christopher Ramos and Joaquín Correa both expected to return in about a week, the midfield options are currently limited. This could force coach Martín Anselmi to explore alternative formations or rely on less experienced players to fill in the gaps, potentially impacting the team’s cohesion.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Kaio	Cruciate ligament injury	Mid June 2026
Christopher Ramos	Unknown	About a week
Joaquín Correa	Unknown	About a week
Fernando Marçal	Sprained knee injury	Doubtful

These injuries could influence betting markets, as a weakened Botafogo RJ might struggle against Grêmio’s attacking threats. The potential lack of depth and experience on the pitch could sway expectations towards a Grêmio victory, especially given the tactical adjustments Botafogo RJ may need to implement.

Botafogo RJ Key Players

Botafogo RJ’s key player heading into the match against Grêmio is undoubtedly Danilo, the team’s top scorer with 2 goals. Operating primarily from midfield, Danilo has been instrumental in both creating and finishing opportunities, showcasing an ability to break through defensive lines with his dribbling and vision. His presence is expected to pose significant challenges to Grêmio’s defensive setup.

In the forward position, Arthur Cabral will lead the attack. Known for his physicality and goal-scoring instinct, Cabral will be a constant aerial threat and a focal point for Botafogo’s attacking plays. In midfield, the creativity and tactical intelligence of Santiago Rodríguez and Vitinho are expected to drive the team’s play, providing the necessary link between defence and attack.

Expected lineup for Botafogo RJ

• Goalkeeper: Neto
• Defence: Mateo Ponte, Newton Araujo, Alexander Barboza
• Midfield: Vitinho, Allan, Danilo, Alex Telles, Santiago Rodríguez, Álvaro Montoro
• Forward: Arthur Cabral

Defensively, the trio of Mateo Ponte, Newton Araujo, and Alexander Barboza will be crucial in maintaining solidity at the back. Their coordination and ability to read the game will be vital in thwarting Grêmio’s attacking threats. Overall, Botafogo’s tactical approach will heavily rely on these key players’ ability to execute their roles effectively, aiming to control the tempo and capitalise on scoring opportunities.

Botafogo RJ Tactics and Formation

Botafogo RJ Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: Not explicitly set, but likely a balanced approach
• Key Forward: Danilo
• Defensive Reliability: Three clean sheets in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: Strong defensive record and effective in maintaining leads.

Botafogo RJ, under coach Martín Anselmi, have shown a flexible tactical approach, often adapting based on their opponent’s strengths and weaknesses. While the exact formation isn’t specified, their recent games suggest a balanced strategy that emphasises a solid defensive structure.

Defensively, Botafogo RJ’s resilience is evident, with three clean sheets in their last five matches. This suggests a disciplined backline capable of absorbing pressure and maintaining composure under attack. Their ability to keep clean sheets has been pivotal in securing points and reflects their defensive strength.

Offensively, Danilo stands out as a key figure, having scored two goals in recent outings. Botafogo RJ’s tactical setup allows them to capitalise on scoring chances, often leveraging quick transitions and counter-attacks. Despite a recent loss against Fluminense, their overall form remains strong, especially when maintaining possession and controlling the game’s tempo.

Grêmio vs Botafogo RJ Head-to-Head Record

In their head-to-head record, Grêmio have the upper hand with 19 wins compared to Botafogo RJ’s 12, while 9 matches have ended in a draw. Their last encounter saw Botafogo RJ narrowly defeat Grêmio 3-2 in a Serie A clash, highlighting the competitive nature of their meetings.

The last time Grêmio hosted Botafogo RJ, the match ended in a 1-1 draw, indicating that home advantage does not always guarantee a win for Grêmio. Historically, Grêmio have been strong at home, but Botafogo RJ have managed to snatch victories, making this an intriguing fixture.

Home Team	Away Team	Score	League	Date
Botafogo RJ	Grêmio	3 – 2	Serie A	2025-11-22
Grêmio	Botafogo RJ	1 – 1	Serie A	2025-09-24
Botafogo RJ	Grêmio	0 – 0	Serie A	2024-09-29
Grêmio	Botafogo RJ	1 – 2	Serie A	2024-06-16
Botafogo RJ	Grêmio	3 – 4	Serie A	2023-11-09