Ponte Preta vs Novorizontino: Match Preview, Predictions and Betting Tips

Published on Sunday, 21 June 2026 by Steve

Ponte Preta vs Novorizontino

Brasileirão Série B Prediction & Betting Tips

📅 Monday, June 22, 2026
🕐 20:00 BRT (23:00 UTC)
🏟️ Estádio Moisés Lucarelli, Campinas, SP
📺 Premiere, SporTV, Globoplay

Match Overview

A gente está aqui porque não tinha mercado", diz atacante da Ponte | Ge
A gente está aqui porque não tinha mercado", diz atacante da Ponte | Ge

The Brasileirão Série B continues its thrilling 2026 campaign with a crucial midweek fixture as Associação Atlética Ponte Preta welcomes Grêmio Novorizontino to the iconic Estádio Moisés Lucarelli in Campinas. This Round 14 encounter pits two São Paulo state clubs against each other, but the contrast in their current fortunes could not be more stark. Ponte Preta, the historic "Macaca" founded in 1900, finds itself in a desperate battle for survival, languishing in 19th place with just 8 points from 13 matches. Meanwhile, Novorizontino arrives in Campinas riding high in 5th position with 21 points, firmly in the promotion conversation and looking to consolidate their place among the elite of Brazil's second division. For those looking to make informed decisions on this fixture, our fulltime prediction analysis provides comprehensive insights into how this match is likely to unfold.

For Ponte Preta, this match represents a watershed moment in their season. Having earned promotion from Série C in 2025, the club has struggled to adapt to the demands of the second tier, managing only 2 wins, 2 draws, and 9 defeats in their opening 13 fixtures. Their goal difference of -15 tells a damning story of defensive frailties and attacking impotence, having scored just 10 goals while conceding 25. The pressure on head coach Edson Boaro is immense, with the former defender taking charge in June 2026 after the departure of Marcelo Fernandes, and yet to register a victory in his two matches at the helm. The home faithful at Moisés Lucarelli will demand a response, and a positive result against a promotion-chasing side could provide the catalyst for a miraculous turnaround. When analyzing matches with such clear form disparities, our 10 teams to win today methodology helps identify value opportunities that casual observers might miss.

Novorizontino, on the other hand, has been one of the revelations of the 2026 Série B season. Under the experienced guidance of Enderson Moreira, the club from Novo Horizonte has built a formidable unit that combines defensive solidity with clinical attacking play. Their record of 5 wins, 6 draws, and only 2 defeats from 13 matches demonstrates remarkable consistency, and their goal difference of +7 reflects a well-balanced squad. The visitors will be keen to extend their unbeaten run and maintain pressure on the automatic promotion places, knowing that every point counts in the fiercely competitive Série B landscape. With key players like Robson, Rômulo, and César Augusto in excellent form, Novorizontino will fancy their chances of leaving Campinas with a positive result, even against a desperate Ponte Preta side that will throw everything at this match. For bettors seeking consistent returns, our must win teams today selections highlight sides with the highest probability of success based on advanced statistical modeling.

Tactical Preview

Rômulo celebra atuação pelo Novorizontino e despista sobre futuro | Ge
Rômulo celebra atuação pelo Novorizontino e despista sobre futuro | Ge

Formation & Key Matchups

Ponte Preta 4-2-3-1

Under Edson Boaro, Ponte Preta has predominantly employed a 4-2-3-1 formation, seeking to provide defensive cover through a double pivot while allowing their creative players to operate in the final third. The system relies heavily on the experience of captain Diogo Silva between the posts, with a back four that typically features Lucas Cunha and Sergio Palacios as the central defensive pairing. The full-back positions have been rotated, with Kevyson and Danilo Barcelos providing width on the flanks. In midfield, the experienced Rodrigo Souza partners with André Lima to shield the defense, while Élvis operates as the creative hub behind the striker. The attacking trident of Diego Tavares, Luis Phelipe, and William Pottker has struggled for cohesion, with Pottker's 2 goals representing the team's top scoring output in a campaign starved of cutting edge. The tactical approach has been criticized for its rigidity, with Ponte Preta often failing to break down organized defenses and leaving themselves vulnerable to counter-attacks. Understanding these evolution of football tactics helps bettors appreciate why certain matchups produce predictable outcomes.

Novorizontino 4-3-3

Enderson Moreira has implemented a fluid 4-3-3 system that has become the hallmark of Novorizontino's success this season. The formation allows for quick transitions from defense to attack, with the midfield trio of Rômulo, Luís Oyama, and Juninho providing both defensive coverage and creative impetus. Rômulo, in particular, has been the standout performer with a rating of 7.46 and 6 assists, dictating the tempo and unlocking defenses with his vision and passing range. The backline, marshaled by experienced center-backs Eduardo Brock and Gabriel Correia, has been exceptional, conceding an average of just 0.8 goals per game in their last five matches. In attack, Robson leads the line with 6 goals, supported by the pace and trickery of Christian Ortíz and the industrious Carlão. The wide players are given license to cut inside and link with the central striker, creating overloads in dangerous areas. Novorizontino's tactical flexibility allows them to dominate possession against weaker sides while remaining compact and dangerous on the break against stronger opposition. For a deeper understanding of how formations influence betting markets, explore our guide on over under betting strategies.

Critical Vulnerability

Ponte Preta's critical vulnerability lies in their inability to maintain defensive concentration for 90 minutes. The team has conceded an alarming 25 goals in 13 matches, an average of nearly 2 goals per game, and their recent form has been particularly concerning with 13 goals conceded in their last 5 fixtures. The central defensive pairing of Lucas Cunha and Sergio Palacios, while individually talented, has shown a worrying tendency to be caught out by through balls and set-pieces. Additionally, the full-backs have been exposed repeatedly, with Kevyson still adapting to the demands of Série B football after arriving on loan from Santos. Novorizontino's attack, led by the in-form Robson and supported by the creative genius of Rômulo, will look to exploit these weaknesses by pressing high and forcing errors in dangerous areas. If Ponte Preta cannot shore up their defensive structure and maintain their shape, they risk being overrun by a Novorizontino side that has shown it can punish even the most organized defenses. Bettors should consider these defensive frailties when exploring correct score tips for this encounter.

Team News & Squad Status

Ponte Preta 🔴

  • Goalkeepers: Diogo Silva (captain), Guilherme Viana, Vinicius Ferrari
  • Defenders: Lucas Cunha, Sergio Palacios, Kevyson, Danilo Barcelos, Bryan Borges, David Braz, Diego Porfírio, Thalys, Weverton, Márcio Silva
  • Midfielders: Rodrigo Souza, André Lima, Élvis, Diego Tavares, Léo Gomes, Murilo Cavalcante, Gustavo Telles, Tárik, Gabriel Henrique, Guilherme Martins
  • Forwards: William Pottker, Luis Phelipe, David da Hora, Jonathan Cafú, Daniel Baianinho, Brandão, Rodriguinho, Vítor Ribeiro
  • Form (Last 5): L-L-L-D-L (1 point from 15)
  • Injuries: No major injury concerns reported
  • Suspensions: No suspensions
  • Manager: Edson Boaro (appointed June 2026)

Novorizontino 🟢

  • Goalkeepers: Lucas Ribeiro, César Augusto, João Scapin, Paulo Henrique
  • Defenders: Eduardo Brock, Gabriel Correia, Carlinhos, Patrick, Sander, Nilson Castrillón, Alemão, Alexis Alvariño, Jhilmar Lora, Dantas, Gabriel Bahia, Renato Palm, Maykon Jesus
  • Midfielders: Rômulo, Luís Oyama, Juninho, Antony, Matheus Bianqui, Léo Naldi, Bruno Santana, Marlon, Nogueira, Miguel Contiero
  • Forwards: Robson, Christian Ortíz, Carlão, Tavinho, Vinícius Paiva, Ronald Barcellos, Diego Galo, Hélio Borges
  • Form (Last 5): D-W-D-W-D (8 points from 15)
  • Injuries: No major injury concerns reported
  • Suspensions: No suspensions
  • Manager: Enderson Moreira

Predicted Lineups

Novorizontino x Ponte Preta: onde assistir o jogo pela Série B
Novorizontino x Ponte Preta: onde assistir o jogo pela Série B

Ponte Preta 4-2-3-1 Novorizontino 4-3-3
Diogo Silva (GK)Lucas Ribeiro (GK)
Kevyson (RB)Carlinhos (RB)
Lucas Cunha (CB)Eduardo Brock (CB)
Sergio Palacios (CB)Gabriel Correia (CB)
Danilo Barcelos (LB)Sander (LB)
Rodrigo Souza (DM)Luís Oyama (DM)
André Lima (DM)Rômulo (CM)
Diego Tavares (RW)Juninho (CM)
Élvis (AM)Christian Ortíz (RW)
Luis Phelipe (LW)Robson (ST)
William Pottker (ST)Carlão (LW)

Head-to-Head Record

Robson volta a marcar após sete jogos pelo Novorizontino | Ge
Robson volta a marcar após sete jogos pelo Novorizontino | Ge

The historical rivalry between Ponte Preta and Novorizontino is a relatively modern one, with the two clubs having faced each other on 11 occasions across various competitions since Novorizontino's rise through the Brazilian football pyramid. The head-to-head record is remarkably balanced, with both teams claiming 4 victories each and 3 matches ending in draws. This parity reflects the competitive nature of their encounters, where neither side has been able to establish outright dominance over the other. The average goals per match in their direct meetings stands at 1.72, indicating that these fixtures tend to be tight, low-scoring affairs where defensive organization and tactical discipline often prove decisive. When analyzing such closely matched historical records, our understanding of online betting odds becomes crucial for identifying where the true value lies in the markets.

4
Ponte Preta Wins
4
Novorizontino Wins
3
Draws
11
Total Meetings

In their most recent encounters during the 2025 Série B campaign, the matches were fiercely contested. Novorizontino secured a narrow 1-0 victory at home, while Ponte Preta managed a 2-1 win at Moisés Lucarelli, demonstrating that home advantage can play a significant role in this fixture. The psychological aspect of this rivalry cannot be understated, as both clubs represent different footballing philosophies and ambitions within the São Paulo state football landscape. Ponte Preta, with its rich history and massive fanbase, carries the weight of expectation, while Novorizontino, the ambitious upstart, plays with the freedom of a club with nothing to lose and everything to gain. Given the current form of both teams and their respective positions in the table, this latest chapter in their rivalry promises to be another intriguing tactical battle where the margin for error will be minimal. For those who enjoy wagering on tight contests, our win either half strategy provides an excellent framework for extracting value from matches where the outcome could be decided by a single moment of quality.

Key Players Comparison

William Pottker

Ponte Preta | Forward

Goals: 2 | Assists: 0 | Rating: 6.84

The experienced striker is Ponte Preta's main goal threat and will need to be at his clinical best to trouble Novorizontino's defense.

Robson

Novorizontino | Forward

Goals: 6 | Assists: 0 | Rating: 7.20

The league's in-form striker has been a revelation this season, leading Novorizontino's scoring charts with his intelligent movement and finishing.

Élvis

Ponte Preta | Midfielder

Goals: 1 | Assists: 1 | Rating: 6.83

The veteran playmaker provides creativity and set-piece delivery, but has struggled to influence games against organized defenses.

Rômulo

Novorizontino | Midfielder

Goals: 3 | Assists: 6 | Rating: 7.46

The standout performer of the season, Rômulo dictates the tempo and creates chances at will with his exceptional vision and passing range.

The individual battles across the pitch will be fascinating to watch, particularly in the midfield area where the creative duel between Élvis and Rômulo could determine the outcome of the match. Élvis, at 35 years old, brings a wealth of experience and technical ability, but he has struggled to replicate his best form in a Ponte Preta side that has been starved of possession and territory. His ability to deliver quality from set-pieces remains a potent weapon, and Novorizontino will need to be vigilant in defending corners and free-kicks. On the other side, Rômulo has been the heartbeat of Novorizontino's success, contributing 3 goals and 6 assists while maintaining an impressive average rating of 7.46. His ability to find space between the lines and pick out runners with inch-perfect passes makes him the most dangerous player on the pitch. For bettors who like to focus on individual player performances, our advanced live betting analysis using xG and pressing metrics offers a sophisticated approach to identifying value in player prop markets.

The Managers

Edson Boaro (Ponte Preta)

Edson Boaro took charge of Ponte Preta in June 2026 following the departure of Marcelo Fernandes, inheriting a team in crisis and facing the daunting task of preserving the club's Série B status. The former defender has a modest managerial record, and his tenure at Ponte Preta has begun with two matches without a victory, yielding just one point. Boaro's tactical approach has centered on defensive solidity, but the team has continued to leak goals at an alarming rate. His challenge is to instill belief in a squad that has been battered by a relentless schedule of defeats and to find a system that maximizes the limited attacking resources at his disposal. The match against Novorizontino represents a crucial test of his tactical acumen and man-management skills, as he seeks to galvanize a demoralized dressing room and extract a performance that can turn the tide. Coaches in such high-pressure situations often rely on capital management secrets to ensure their squads remain competitive despite limited resources.

Boaro's managerial style is characterized by pragmatism and a focus on organizational discipline. He favors a structured 4-2-3-1 formation that prioritizes defensive shape over attacking flair, but this approach has yet to yield the desired results at Ponte Preta. The coach has spoken publicly about the need for his players to show more fight and determination, emphasizing that survival in Série B will require a collective effort from everyone at the club. His ability to motivate a squad that has suffered nine defeats in thirteen matches will be severely tested against a confident Novorizontino side. If Boaro can find a way to shore up the defense and give his attacking players the platform to express themselves, Ponte Preta may yet salvage something from this difficult season. The principles of mastering football betting by avoiding common mistakes apply equally to coaching, where emotional decisions often lead to poor outcomes.

Enderson Moreira (Novorizontino)

Enderson Moreira has established himself as one of the most respected coaches in Brazilian football, and his work at Novorizontino has only enhanced his reputation. Appointed to lead the club's Série B campaign, Moreira has transformed Novorizontino into a promotion-chasing force, averaging 1.69 points per game across his 36 matches in charge. His tactical philosophy is built on a foundation of defensive organization, quick transitions, and collective pressing, and he has successfully instilled a winning mentality in a squad that had previously been regarded as mid-table material. Moreira's ability to get the best out of his players is evident in the outstanding performances of Robson, Rômulo, and César Augusto, who have all flourished under his guidance. His approach mirrors the effective football parlay betting strategy of building success through multiple small improvements that compound over time.

Moreira's experience in Brazilian football is extensive, having managed clubs at various levels including spells in Série A. He is known for his meticulous preparation and attention to detail, often tailoring his tactical approach to exploit the weaknesses of specific opponents. Against Ponte Preta, he will be acutely aware of the home side's defensive vulnerabilities and will likely instruct his team to press high and force errors in dangerous areas. Moreira's calm demeanor and tactical intelligence have made him a fan favorite at Novorizontino, and the club's supporters will be confident that he can mastermind another positive result. With the promotion race heating up, every point is precious, and Moreira will be determined to ensure his team does not slip up against a struggling opponent. His methodical approach to match preparation is reminiscent of the discipline required in accumulator betting, where patience and research ultimately pay dividends.

Betting Predictions & Tips

🎯 BEST PICK: Under 2.5 Goals

Odds: 1.65

This is our strongest recommendation for this fixture. Ponte Preta has struggled massively in front of goal, scoring just 10 goals in 13 matches, while Novorizontino has built its success on a rock-solid defense that has conceded only 13 goals all season. The historical head-to-head record between these two teams also points to low-scoring encounters, with an average of just 1.72 goals per match. Given Ponte Preta's desperation to avoid defeat and Novorizontino's tactical discipline, this match has all the ingredients for a tight, cagey affair with few clear-cut chances. The under 2.5 goals market offers excellent value at 1.65 and aligns perfectly with our 0-0 score prediction. For more insights on this market, visit our dedicated over under betting guide.

⭐ VALUE PLAY: Draw (X)

Odds: 3.20

The draw offers exceptional value at 3.20, especially considering the contrasting motivations of both teams. Ponte Preta is fighting for survival and will approach this match with a defensive mindset, looking to frustrate Novorizontino and nick a point. Novorizontino, while in excellent form, may be content with a draw away from home against a desperate opponent, particularly with a congested fixture list ahead. The head-to-head record shows that 3 of the last 11 meetings between these sides have ended level, and the tactical matchup suggests another stalemate is a strong possibility. At odds of 3.20, the draw represents outstanding value for punters looking for a higher-return option. Our 4 draws football tips section regularly identifies matches with high draw probability based on advanced statistical models.

📊 Both Teams to Score: No

Odds: 1.85

Ponte Preta's attacking struggles have been well-documented this season, with the team failing to score in 5 of their 13 matches. Their top scorer, William Pottker, has managed just 2 goals, and the team has lacked creativity and cutting edge in the final third. Novorizontino, meanwhile, has kept 5 clean sheets in their 13 matches and has one of the best defensive records in the division. The combination of Ponte Preta's impotence in attack and Novorizontino's defensive excellence makes the "Both Teams to Score: No" market an attractive proposition at 1.85. This selection dovetails nicely with our under 2.5 goals and 0-0 predictions. Understanding how to read betting odds is essential for recognizing when markets like this offer genuine value.

⚽ Correct Score: 0-0

Odds: 7.50

Our primary score prediction is a 0-0 draw, available at generous odds of 7.50. This outcome is supported by a confluence of factors: Ponte Preta's inability to score consistently, Novorizontino's defensive solidity, the historical low-scoring nature of this fixture, and the psychological dynamic of a desperate home team facing a cautious away side. A goalless draw would be a valuable result for Ponte Preta in their battle against relegation, while Novorizontino would not be overly disappointed to leave Campinas with a point that keeps them in the promotion hunt. The 0-0 correct score offers significant value and is our recommended speculative play for this match. For more correct score opportunities, check out our correct score tips page.

🤔 SPECULATIVE: Novorizontino to Win to Nil

Odds: 3.40

For those seeking a higher-risk, higher-reward option, Novorizontino to win to nil at 3.40 is worth considering. The visitors have demonstrated their ability to keep clean sheets this season, and their attacking quality, led by the prolific Robson, could prove too much for a Ponte Preta defense that has conceded 25 goals in 13 matches. If Novorizontino can score early, they have the tactical discipline and defensive organization to see out the result. However, this selection carries more risk given Ponte Preta's home advantage and desperation for points. It should be treated as a speculative play rather than a core bet, and we recommend keeping stakes modest. Responsible bankroll management is crucial when placing speculative wagers on football matches.

⚠️ Disclaimer: Odds are indicative and subject to change. Please gamble responsibly. 18+. If affected by problem gambling, contact the National Responsible Gambling Programme: 0800 006 008.

📊 Final Score Prediction

Ponte Preta
0
Novorizontino
0

Match Analysis

Our prediction of a 0-0 draw is rooted in a comprehensive analysis of both teams' current form, tactical setups, and historical trends. Ponte Preta's season has been defined by a chronic inability to convert chances, having scored just 10 goals in 13 matches at an average of 0.77 goals per game. Their attacking output has been particularly poor at home, where they have managed only 5 goals in 7 matches. The team's top scorer, William Pottker, has just 2 goals to his name, and the supporting cast has offered little in terms of creativity or clinical finishing. Against a Novorizontino defense that has conceded only 13 goals all season and has kept 5 clean sheets, Ponte Preta's prospects of finding the net appear slim. For bettors looking to refine their approach to such matches, our guide on analytical daily sports predictions offers a framework for systematic match evaluation.

Novorizontino, while in excellent form and boasting a potent attack led by Robson's 6 goals, may find it difficult to break down a Ponte Preta side that will be highly motivated to avoid defeat. The home team is expected to adopt a deep defensive block, looking to frustrate the visitors and capitalize on any mistakes. Enderson Moreira's side has been efficient rather than prolific in front of goal, and their away record, while solid, suggests they are more comfortable controlling games at home. The tactical battle is likely to be cagey, with both teams prioritizing defensive security over attacking ambition. In such a scenario, a goalless draw becomes the most probable outcome, offering value for punters who can identify the underlying trends driving this match. The live betting markets may provide additional opportunities as the match unfolds and the tactical picture becomes clearer.

Key Insights & Statistics

  • Ponte Preta has scored just 10 goals in 13 Série B matches this season, the second-lowest tally in the division.
  • Novorizontino has conceded only 13 goals in 13 matches, boasting one of the best defensive records in Série B.
  • The head-to-head record between these teams is perfectly balanced at 4 wins apiece with 3 draws from 11 meetings.
  • Ponte Preta has failed to score in 5 of their 13 league matches this season.
  • Novorizontino has kept 5 clean sheets in their 13 Série B fixtures.
  • The average goals per match in direct encounters between these sides is just 1.72.
  • Ponte Preta has won 0 of their last 5 matches, scoring 5 goals and conceding 13.
  • Novorizontino is unbeaten in 3 of their last 5 matches, with 2 wins and 3 draws.
  • Robson leads Novorizontino's scoring charts with 6 goals, while William Pottker is Ponte Preta's top scorer with just 2.
  • Rômulo has been the standout creative force for Novorizontino with 6 assists and an average rating of 7.46.
  • Ponte Preta sits in 19th place with 8 points, while Novorizontino is in 5th with 21 points.
  • The last meeting between these sides at Moisés Lucarelli ended in a 2-1 victory for Ponte Preta.
  • Novorizontino's away form has been solid but not spectacular, with 2 wins, 3 draws, and 2 defeats on the road.
  • Ponte Preta has the worst defensive record in Série B, having conceded 25 goals at an average of 1.92 per game.
  • Both teams have a tendency to play low-scoring matches, with 60% of Ponte Preta's games and 54% of Novorizontino's games featuring under 2.5 goals.

Conclusion

This Brasileirão Série B fixture presents a fascinating contrast between a team fighting for survival and one chasing promotion. Ponte Preta's season has been nothing short of disastrous, with the club rooted in the relegation zone and desperate for a result that can spark a revival. The appointment of Edson Boaro has yet to yield the desired improvement, and the team continues to struggle at both ends of the pitch. Their inability to score goals, combined with a porous defense that has leaked 25 goals in 13 matches, makes them one of the weakest teams in the division on current form. However, football is a game of fine margins, and the unique pressure of a home crowd at Moisés Lucarelli could yet inspire a performance that defies the odds. For those who believe in the power of data-driven analysis, our insights into why football betting attracts millions demonstrate how informed decision-making can transform casual viewing into profitable engagement.

Novorizontino arrives in Campinas as the clear favorite, buoyed by an excellent season that has seen them establish themselves as genuine promotion contenders. Under the astute management of Enderson Moreira, the team has developed a winning mentality and a tactical identity that has made them difficult to beat. Their defensive record is exemplary, and the attacking contributions of Robson and Rômulo have provided the cutting edge needed to turn draws into victories. Yet, away matches against desperate opponents are notoriously tricky, and Novorizontino will need to be patient and disciplined to avoid being dragged into a physical battle that suits Ponte Preta's needs. The dynamics of bookmaker odds in live betting often shift dramatically in such fixtures, creating opportunities for astute observers.

Ultimately, our prediction of a 0-0 draw reflects the tactical realities of this matchup. Ponte Preta will prioritize defensive organization and look to frustrate Novorizontino, while the visitors may be content to avoid defeat and maintain their position in the promotion race. The statistics overwhelmingly support a low-scoring encounter, with both teams' trends pointing towards a match defined by caution rather than ambition. For bettors, the under 2.5 goals market at 1.65 and the draw at 3.20 represent the most logical selections, while the 0-0 correct score at 7.50 offers excellent value for those willing to take a speculative position. Whatever the outcome, this match will be a testament to the drama and unpredictability that makes Brazilian Série B one of the most compelling leagues in world football. As you prepare your betting strategy, remember that choosing safe and trusted betting sites is just as important as making the right predictions.