In what promises to be an exhilarating Champions League clash, Real Madrid set out to maintain their impeccable record in Group C against a formidable Braga side. Los Blancos, led by the experienced Carlo Ancelotti, are gunning for their third consecutive win in this season’s Champions League campaign, while Braga aims to upset the apple cart and get back on track after a frustrating start. With group dynamics shifting, both teams are aware that this fixture carries immense significance.
Group C Dynamics
Real Madrid find themselves at the summit of Group C, boasting a flawless record of two wins from two matches, having defeated Union Berlin and Napoli. Braga, on the other hand, sit in third place with one win and one loss to their name. The Portuguese side’s campaign began with an unfortunate late defeat against Napoli, conceding a late goal that resulted in a 2-1 loss. Nonetheless, they rebounded impressively in their second group match, mounting a thrilling comeback from two goals down to clinch a 3-2 victory over Union Berlin.
Braga’s Impressive Form
Braga enter this clash on a resounding note, carrying a five-game winning streak, which includes victories in their last three league fixtures. Their scintillating form in the Primeira Liga has earned them 16 points from eight games, securing them a respectable fourth position in the league table. Remarkably, they have a commendable track record against Spanish opponents, boasting two wins in their last three encounters with Spanish clubs, all against Sevilla. Braga is primed for a historic showdown, ready to take on the European football giants for the first time since their 2012-13 Champions League campaign.
Real Madrid’s Dominance
Real Madrid are currently a force to be reckoned with, not only in the Champions League but also in La Liga. The team stands atop both competitions, with 25 points from their opening 10 league fixtures. Their Champions League journey kicked off with a slender 1-0 victory against Union Berlin, followed by a thrilling 3-2 triumph over Napoli in Italy. Despite their exceptional form, Ancelotti’s men recently saw their four-game winning streak come to an end with a hard-fought draw against Sevilla.
Real Madrid’s Away Challenge
While Real Madrid has a storied history in European football, their away record in recent times presents an interesting challenge. They’ve been beaten in eight of their last 24 away matches in the Champions League, registering just eight wins in the process. This stat should give Braga the confidence to put up a formidable fight against the Spanish giants. Real Madrid’s overall record against Portuguese opposition, however, is strong, with 14 wins, two draws, and five losses in their last 21 matches.
Team News
- Braga’s only confirmed absentee is Victor Gomez, who is sidelined due to a thigh problem.
- Ricardo Horta, who had been a fitness concern, is expected to feature in the starting XI.
- Alvaro Djalo, the team’s leading scorer this season, is set to start alongside Bruma and Simon Banza.
- Real Madrid, on the other hand, will miss the services of Thibaut Courtois and Eder Militao due to long-term knee injuries.
- Dani Ceballos is also out with a muscular injury.
- Arda Guler is nearing his first appearance for the club.
- David Alaba is expected to start in defence, while there could be a change at left-back with Eduardo Camavinga.
- The decision for the starting attacker alongside Vinicius Junior is likely to favor Rodrygo.
Predictions
In what promises to be a closely contested match, Braga’s recent form is something Real Madrid should not underestimate. While Braga is expected to put up a good fight, the superior experience and quality of Real Madrid should ultimately see them through. We anticipate a scoreline of Braga 1-2 Real Madrid, with the away side clinching a crucial three points.
