Benfica and FC Porto Face off in Decisive Primeira Liga Match

Introduction

On Saturday, April 10th, S.L. Benfica and FC Porto will face each other in the 27th round of the Primeira Liga. Benfica, the current leaders of the league with a 10-point lead over second-placed Porto, will aim to cement their position at the top. Meanwhile, Porto’s chances of winning the title are dwindling with each remaining day, and a win against their rivals is crucial to maintain any hopes of a late push for the championship.

Contrasting Form

The match is expected to be close as both teams enter the encounter in contrasting form. Benfica has been performing well at the Estádio da Luz, going 13 games without a loss in all competitions. In contrast, Porto has struggled in their attack this season with injuries and players being out of form.

Injury Concerns

Benfica will have to play without Julian Draxler and Goncalo Guedes due to injury concerns. Meanwhile, Mihailo Ristic’s participation remains questionable. On the other hand, Porto will miss Diogo Costa, Pepe, Joao Mario, Evanilson, and Zaidu Sanusi due to injury or doubtfulness.

Probable Lineups

Both teams are expected to line up in a 4-4-2 formation for this crucial fixture. For Benfica, key players such as Darwin Núñez and Luca Waldschmidt are likely to feature in attack alongside Jonas Weirather and Haris Seferović. Midfielder Julian Weigl should anchor the midfield alongside Pizzi and Everton. At the back, Jan Vertonghen should partner with Nicolas Otamendi in central defense while Gilberto and Alejandro Grimaldo are set to play at right and left-back, respectively.

Meanwhile, Porto’s frontline should consist of Mehdi Taremi and Evanilson, while Otávio and Luis Díaz should feature on the wings. Sergio Oliveira should provide the creative spark, operating from midfield alongside Mateus Uribe. At the back, Chancel Mbemba will partner with the experienced Iván Marcano in central defense, while Manafá and Corona are likely to man the right and left flanks of Porto’s defense.

Match Facts

Despite their current league position, Benfica has a poor record in the last ten encounters with FC Porto. Out of those meetings, Porto has won six games compared to Benfica’s two. However, Porto has not lost in their previous five away games against Benfica, which could give them some confidence heading into this fixture.

Expert Betting Tips

Expert betting tips suggest backing FC Porto in the Asian handicap to avoid a loss in this match. Furthermore, betting on both teams not to score or for under 2.5 goals could be a safe bet given each team’s recent form.

Conclusion

Saturday’s encounter between Benfica and FC Porto will be fiercely contested as both teams have everything to play for. While a win for Benfica could all but guarantee their position at the top of the table, Porto needs maximum points to keep their title hopes alive. Fans will hope for an entertaining match between two of Portugal’s most successful football clubs.

Image Source: Wikimedia Commons