Ferencvaros is set to host Braga in the UEFA Europa League round of 16 at the Groupama Arena on Thursday. Following a dramatic playoff against Ludogorets, where they won 2-0 on February 26, Ferencvaros advanced with a 3-2 aggregate victory. This match will be crucial for Braga, recognized as one of only three teams unbeaten in away games during the tournament.
Match Preview
Ferencvaros recently secured a decisive 3-1 victory over Nyiregyhaza Spartacus, placing them at the top of the Hungarian NB I standings. They have achieved five consecutive wins across all competitions, marking an impressive run that includes a 5-0 triumph against Kazincbarcikai SC in the Magyar Kupa quarter-finals.
Braga, in response, has also enjoyed success in their campaign, having beaten Lincoln Red Imps 9-1 on aggregate in their Europa League qualifying matches. Their remarkable start saw them secure wins against Feyenoord, Celtic, and Red Star Belgrade, leading to a strong league performance where they finally finished in sixth place with 17 points.
Recent Performance
- Ferencvaros: 5 wins, 0 losses in last five matches.
- Braga: 7 wins, 2 draws in last ten matches.
Braga recently played to a 2-2 draw against Sporting Lisbon, showcasing resilience by equalizing twice. This performance cements their position in the quest for European qualification.
Team News
Ferencvaros will be without Swiss defender Stefan Gartenmann and midfielder Bence Otvos, both sidelined due to injuries. Meanwhile, Braga will miss Victor Gomez, who is suspended, alongside several injured players, including Sikou Niakate and Adrian Barisic.
Possible Lineups
| Ferencvaros | Braga |
|---|---|
| Grof | Hornicek |
| Cisse | Arrey-Mbi |
| Raemaekers | Oliveira |
| Gomez | Lagerbielke |
| Makreckis | Martinez |
| Kanichowsky | Moutinho |
| Fani | Grillitsch |
| Madarasz | Dorgeles |
| Cadu | Zalazar |
| Joseph | Horta |
| Bamidele | Victor |
Match Prediction
While Ferencvaros has demonstrated formidable form at home, Braga’s strong squad on paper and their impressive Europa League journey suggest a tightly contested match. The prediction leans toward Braga securing a narrow win, potentially 2-1.
