Braga vs Red Star: Match Preview, Predictions, Team News & Lineups
On Thursday, Braga hosts Red Star Belgrade at Estadio Municipal de Braga as part of the UEFA Europa League. Braga, boasting a perfect record in the competition, seeks to continue their success against the Serbian visitors, who are aiming to turn around their fortunes after a challenging start.
Match Overview
Braga has won both of their opening Europa League matches, positioning them third in the tournament standings. In contrast, Red Star Belgrade has collected just one point from two games, which places them significantly lower on the log. This match will undoubtedly be crucial for both teams as they look to secure vital points.
Braga’s Current Form
Braga’s journey in the Primeira Liga has been less impressive. They are winless in their last four league outings, including a recent 1-1 draw against Sporting Lisbon. However, their form in Europe tells a different story. They started their campaign with a 1-0 victory over Feyenoord, followed by a solid 2-0 win against Celtic, showcasing their strength on the continental stage.
Currently, Braga is one of only three teams in the Europa League that has not conceded a goal this season. They look to extend their perfect record to eight consecutive wins in European competition, having also enjoyed success in the qualifying rounds.
Red Star Belgrade’s Challenges
Red Star Belgrade arrives in Portugal on the back of two solid league victories, defeating Napredak 3-0 and IMT Novi Beograd 6-1. Despite their domestic success, their European results have been disheartening, with a 1-1 draw against Celtic followed by a narrow 2-1 loss to Porto. This recent defeat adds to their troubling trend of losing eleven of their last twelve away games in Europe.
Previous Encounters
This match marks the sixth encounter between Braga and Red Star in Europa League history. Previous meetings have seen both teams win once, with the last match held in December 2021 ending in a 1-1 draw.
Team News
Braga
- Braga reports no new injury concerns.
- Key player Lukas Hornicek is expected to return as goalkeeper.
- Sikou Niakate and Gustaf Lagerbielke are likely to partner in defense.
- Ricardo Horta and Rodrigo Zalazar may also return to the starting lineup.
Red Star Belgrade
- Rade Krunic and Shavy Babicka are unavailable due to injuries.
- Attacking midfielder Aleksandar Katai is doubtful for this match.
- Marko Arnautovic, Vasilije Kostov, and Mirko Ivanic are expected to lead the attack.
- Luka Zaric could start on the right flank after impressing from the bench.
Predictions
As both teams prepare for this critical matchup, the prediction leans towards Braga securing a 2-1 victory over Red Star Belgrade. Braga’s defensive solidity in the Europa League and their recent winning streak may prove pivotal against Red Star’s struggle in away matches in Europe.
