As Benfica approaches the culmination of 2025, they face Braga in the 16th round of the Liga. Currently, Benfica is riding high, having secured four consecutive victories without conceding a single goal. Head coach José Mourinho aims to extend this positive run, with the hope of achieving their tenth match unbeaten.
Match Preview: Benfica vs. Braga
Benfica is determined to end the year on a strong note and maintain or close the gap with their rivals. One of their key players, Tomás Araújo, is available for selection after leaving the recent match against Famalicão at the 56th minute. His presence will allow Mourinho to keep the defensive line intact.
Potential Starting Eleven
As the coach prepares the lineup, insights from recent games will heavily influence his decisions. Leandro Barreiro, who missed the clash against Famalicão, has returned to training, adding more options for Mourinho. During the press conference, Mourinho mentioned:
- “The signals are positive for Barreiro’s return, but I cannot guarantee his involvement just yet.”
Key Players to Watch
Despite speculation surrounding Nicolás Otamendi, he is expected to remain in the starting eleven. The following players are likely to be part of the matchday squad:
- Trubin – Goalkeeper
- Dedic – Right Back
- Tomás Araújo – Defender
- Nicolás Otamendi – Defender
- Dahl – Defender
- Richard Ríos – Midfielder
- Enzo Barrenechea – Midfielder
- Gianluca Prestianni – Forward
- Fredrik Aursnes – Midfielder
- Heorhii Sudakov – Left Winger
- Vangelis Pavlidis – Striker
With the final match of 2025 ahead, fans are eagerly anticipating how Benfica will perform against Braga. The team’s objective remains clear: to maintain their winning streak and finish the year strongly in the league standings.
