Palmeiras have been handed a blow with key defender Murilo sidelined after suffering a thigh injury against Inter Miami, possibly ruling him out for the rest of the tournament. However, Argentine midfielder Aníbal Romero has returned to full training.
As a result, Bruno Fuchs and Micael are likely to join Gustavo Gómez at the heart of the defense, while Romero pushes for a starting role in midfield.
Ferreira has largely stuck with a consistent lineup, meaning rising star Estêvão — who could face future club Chelsea next — and playmaker Raphael Veiga are set to keep Felipe Anderson on the bench.
Up front, Vitor Roque and José Manuel López are in contention to lead the line for the São Paulo side.
On the other hand, Botafogo’s main attacking threat is Igor Jesus. The Brazilian striker, reportedly a target for Nottingham Forest, scored two of the team’s three group-stage goals and leads the squad in shots, shots on target, and touches in the opposition box.
He is expected to be joined by Jefferson Savarino and Artur in the front three, pushing recent signings Arthur Cabral and Joaquín Correa to the bench.
In midfield, the experienced trio of Allan, Gregore, and captain Marlon Freitas will be central to Botafogo’s game plan.
Despite picking up a thigh issue against Atleti, full-back Vitinho has been cleared to play, though defender Bastos remains out with a knee injury.
Predicted Lineups
Palmeiras:
Weverton; Rocha, Gómez, Fuchs, Piquerez; Rios, Moreno; Estêvão, Veiga, Torres; Roque
Botafogo:
John; Vitinho, Cunha, Barboza, Telles; Gregore, Allan, Freitas; Artur, Jesus, Savarino