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Braga Seeks Redemption against Unsettled Chaves

Saturday evening will witness a gripping showdown in the Portuguese Primeira Liga as Chaves hosts Braga at Estadio Municipal Eng. Manuel Branco Teixeira. Both clubs haven’t had the ideal start to their 2023-24 campaigns, making this contest a crucial one for gaining early momentum.

The Context

Chaves’s return to the top flight last season was remarkable, finishing seventh in the table. However, their current form paints a different picture. Their season opener against Rio Ave concluded in a 2-0 defeat, compounded by Bruno Langa’s early sending off. This setback came on the back of a lacklustre pre-season and an early exit from the Taca da Liga.

In contrast, Braga, finishing third last season and reaching the final of the Taca de Portugal, began their Champions League qualifiers in style. A 7-1 aggregate victory against Serbian side Backa Topola showcases their potential. However, the loss to Famalicao in the league opener was unexpected and something they’ll be keen to put behind them.

Historical Perspective

Historically, Braga holds a dominant lead over Chaves, with 18 wins in their 26 encounters. Their recent trips to Chaves have been particularly fruitful, winning the last four. The Archbishops’ prowess on the road is further exemplified by their last season’s away record, where they netted 35 goals in 17 matches.

Key Players

Chaves will undoubtedly miss the defensive presence of Bruno Langa due to suspension. The likely inclusion of young Eduardo Borges adds to their defence’s unpredictability. The absence of the Brazilian defender Euller, who’s nursing a muscle problem, further weakens the backline. The frontline, led by Victor and Hernandez, needs to be particularly sharp against Braga’s defence.

Braga’s Bruma stands out, registering four goal involvements in just three matches this season. Alongside the Horta brothers and Ruiz, Bruma can be a game-changer. Paulo Oliveira’s return, paired with the young talent Serdar Saatci, bolsters their defensive setup, giving Braga a balanced look.

The Prediction

Given the historical data and the current form, Braga seems to hold the edge. Chaves, with a disrupted backline and unsettled form, will find Braga’s attacking flair challenging to handle. Furthermore, Braga’s stellar away performances last season, combined with their need to bounce back from their league opener loss, positions them favourably.

However, football is unpredictable. Chaves, playing at home and with the pressure to start their league campaign on a positive note, might just pull off a surprise. But, as it stands, the scales tip slightly in favour of Braga.

Final Prediction: Braga to win 3-1.

While both teams have their strengths and weaknesses, the depth and historical dominance of Braga could prove decisive in this Primeira Liga clash. Saturday will reveal if Chaves can defy the odds or if Braga continues their winning streak at the Estadio Municipal.

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