Benfica vs Braga Prediction & Betting Tips (8 January)

Benfica finds itself in a little torpor now following its 2nd successive defeat in the league last weekend against the same Braga team 1-2. The Luz residents were already left with a defeat in the derby against Sporting at José Alvalade 1-0, two defeats against the country's top brass. Angel Di Maria's partners before these two defeats, remained on a series of nine matches without defeat in all competitions for an excellent record of seven victories and two draws. Note that in the 1/4 final, Benfica did not laugh by taking out the surprising team of Santa Clara 5th in the championship with a clear score of 3 goals to nothing. Braga will therefore travel to La Luz for the second time in succession in the space of a few days and suffice to say that this team embarrassed Benfica by winning here in the league last weekend 1-2.

A capital victory for the Minhotos warriors who reduced the margin by six points in the race for the podium and who had to regain victory immediately after their home loss against Casa Pia on December 29, 1-2. There is a fairly important statistic to point out in the visitors' favor, which is that they have only lost one of their last eight away matches in all competitions for a serious record of six wins and one draw. The defeat was written in Rome against AS Roma, in the league stage of the Europa League 3-0. 

Suffering from a shoulder, Tiago Gouveia will not participate in this game (injured). This is ultimately the only major absence to report for Bruno Lage (coach). The Argentine world champions Angel Di Maria (6 goals, 3 assists in the league) and Otamendi (captain) will be present like the crack and Turkish international Kerem Akturkoglu (6 goals, 5 goals in the league), without forgetting the Greek international Pavlidis (4 goals + 2 assists), or the Brazilian striker Cabral, scorer coming off the bench against Braga, in vain, not enough to avoid defeat for his team.  Probably a hard blow for Braga who lost their starting central defender Niakate (Malian international) during the match against Benfica (left prematurely due to injury). Like the locals, this is the only question about the squad. For the rest, the scorers at Luz four days ago: Robson Bambu (central defender) and Fran Navarro will be present.

Furthermore, the latter city scored his first goal with Braga for his first appearance (arrived on loan a few days ago from Porto). He had already shined on Gil Vicente's side two years ago but was hampered by competition among the Dragons. A major reinforcement for Braga and especially for Ricardo Horta (5 goals, 2 assists) who will be able to shine again with a boy positioned just in front of him like Simon Banza before his departure to Trabzonspor. Let's not forget to add Bruma (7 goals, 4 assists in the league) to the offensive equation.