In an exciting clash on Sunday, Porto will face Braga in a key Primeira Liga matchup at Estadio do Dragao. This game marks round 10 of the season, with Porto aiming to maintain their lead at the top of the table.
Current Standings
Porto sits three points clear of Sporting Lisbon, having accumulated 25 points from their first nine matches. Braga, on the other hand, is positioned seventh with 13 points, showcasing a strong recent performance.
Porto’s Recent Form
- Porto has enjoyed a remarkable start, but their momentum appears to be waning.
- Their unbeaten streak in the league ended with a goalless draw against Benfica.
- A subsequent loss to Nottingham Forest also halted their unbeaten run of 11 matches.
Last weekend, Porto managed to secure a narrow 2-1 win against Moreirense, thanks to a late goal from substitute Deniz Gul. Coach Francesco Farioli is searching for new strategies to reinvigorate their attacking play.
Defensive Record
Despite recent struggles, Porto’s defense remains impressive, having conceded only two goals this season, the best record in the league. They have scored 21 goals so far, trailing only Sporting Lisbon, who have netted 23.
Braga’s Resurgence
- Braga enters the match with a six-game unbeaten streak across all competitions.
- They have won their last four matches, all without conceding a goal.
The Archbishops recently triumphed with a 5-0 victory over Santa Clara in the Taca da Liga. They also secured a decisive 4-0 win against Casa Pia, breaking a five-game winless stretch in the league.
Previous Challenges
Braga faced difficulties earlier in the season, suffering home defeats against Gil Vicente and Nacional, along with draws against AVS and Vitoria de Guimaraes. A draw against Sporting Lisbon on matchday eight revived their hopes, culminating in a confidence-boosting win last week.
Team News
Porto Injuries
- Nehuen Perez and Zaidu Sanusi are unavailable due to injuries.
- Luuk de Jong is back in training but is not expected to start.
- Samu Omorodion is likely to lead the attack, with Deniz Gul also pushing for inclusion.
Braga Injuries
- Midfielder Vitor Carvalho is the only confirmed absentee.
- Paulo Oliveira, Sikou Niakate, and Florian Grillitsch are back in contention.
- Pau Victor’s exceptional performance in the midweek cup match makes him a candidate for the starting lineup.
Expected Lineups
Porto Possible Starting XI
- D Costa
- Moura, Kiwior, Bednarek, A Costa
- Veiga, Varela, Froholdt
- Pepe, Aghehowa, Sainz
Braga Possible Starting XI
- Hornicek
- Arrey-Mbi, Oliveira, Lagerbielke
- Lelo, Moutinho, Gorby, Gomez
- Victor, Horta, Navarro
The match predictions suggest a tightly contested affair, with Porto likely to edge past Braga, who have struggled at the Dragao in recent years. Coach Farioli’s side must capitalize on their home advantage to secure a vital three points.
