Volta Redonda vs Chapecoense-sc Prediction
Bottom Feeders vs Promotion Chasers: Goals at a Premium
Preview
Right then, let's have a proper look at this one. We've got Volta Redonda sitting pretty in 19th place with a whopping 34 points, welcoming Chapecoense-sc who're knocking on the door of the promotion spots in 4th with 58 points. Talk about a mismatch!
Volta Redonda's recent form is, shall we say, absolutely shocking. One win in their last ten games, and they've managed to find the net just four times in that run. That's 0.4 goals per game, folks - you've got more chance of spotting a unicorn at the local boozer. They've been shut out seven times in ten matches, including recent 0-2 and 0-1 defeats against Atletico Paranaense and Botafogo SP. Their only win since September was a 2-1 victory over third-placed remo, but that's looking like a right fluke now.
Chapecoense-sc, on the other hand, are a different kettle of fish altogether. Four wins, four draws, and two losses in their last ten shows they're still in decent nick. They're averaging 1.2 goals per game and have been solid on their travels with a 40% away win rate. They recently put three past Goias away from home and kept a clean sheet against Operario-PR.
The only previous meeting this season ended 4-2 to Chapecoense-sc, but don't let that fool you - Volta Redonda have gone even more goal-shy since then. The home side are averaging just 0.4 goals per game at their own gaff, while Chapecoense-sc are netting 1.2 on the road.
When you look at the numbers, this screams 'low-scoring affair'. Volta Redonda couldn't hit a barn door with a banjo at the moment, and Chapecoense-sc might not need to get out of second gear to take the three points. The goal expectancy is just 1.60 total goals for this match, which tells its own story really.
The away win at 1.67 looks about right given the gulf in class, but I reckon there's better value elsewhere. With Volta Redonda's attack being about as potent as a chocolate teapot, Under 2.5 goals at 1.73 catches my eye. Seven clean sheets against the home side in ten games says it all, really.