Braga will aim to secure consecutive victories when they visit SC Farense for matchweek 26 of the Primeira Liga this Saturday. After ending their two-game losing streak with a hard-fought 1-0 win against Porto last weekend, Carlos Carvalhal’s men will be eager to build momentum in their pursuit of a top-three finish.
Braga’s recent triumph was sealed by Ricardo Horta’s early strike in the 17th minute, helping them stay level on 50 points with Porto, though trailing on goal difference. The Archbishops have now won seven of their last nine league games, with their only setbacks coming in away fixtures against Vitoria de Guimaraes and Rio Ave. However, Braga’s solid away form, with 26 points from a possible 36, will give them confidence heading into this encounter.
Despite their recent struggles on the road, Braga have dominated this fixture in recent years, winning four of their last six league meetings against Farense, including a comfortable 2-0 victory in the reverse fixture last October. However, memories of their 3-1 defeat at Estadio de Sao Luís last season will serve as a reminder not to underestimate their opponents.
Farense, meanwhile, are battling to avoid relegation and find themselves in the drop zone after a dismal 10-match winless run. Their most recent outing saw them fight back from two goals down to salvage a 2-2 draw at Estoril Praia, with Rui Costa and Miguel Menino finding the net in the dying moments. However, they remain just two points above bottom-placed Boavista and six points from safety.
Toze Marreco’s side has particularly struggled at home, losing their last four matches at Estadio de Sao Luís and managing just one point from their previous six home games. With only seven goals scored in front of their home fans all season, Farense hold the second-worst attacking home record in the league, which does not bode well against a resilient Braga side.
Farense could recall Miguel Menino to the starting lineup after his late equaliser against Estoril, while Rui Costa is also pushing for a start after his impact off the bench. However, midfielder Neto remains sidelined due to an ankle injury.
Braga will welcome back Fran Navarro, who missed the Porto clash, and he is expected to lead the line. However, goalkeeper Tiago Sa is suspended following his red card last weekend, with Matheus Hornicek set to retain his place between the posts. Vitor Carvalho and Roger Fernandes are ruled out due to injury, while Sikou Niakate and Rodrigo Zalazar are doubtful.
Given Braga’s superior quality and Farense’s poor home form, the visitors are expected to dominate and secure a 2-0 victory to keep their top-four hopes alive.