Braga vs Genk: Match Preview, Predictions, Team News, Lineups

Braga is set to host Genk in a Thursday clash in the Europa League, showcasing two teams with strikingly different trajectories in the tournament. This encounter marks their first meeting in competitive play.

Braga’s Stellar Europa League Start

Braga has emerged as a formidable contender in this season’s Europa League, having won all three of their matches so far. This perfect record has positioned them second in the standings. Their journey began with a convincing 1-0 victory against Feyenoord, followed by a 2-0 win against Celtic. Most recently, Braga secured a 2-0 triumph over Red Star Belgrade.

Despite struggles in the Primeira Liga, where they haven’t won since August, Braga’s European performance has been uplifting. With a string of victories in both domestic and continental competitions, they have displayed impressive defensive solidity, keeping clean sheets in eight of their last ten European matches. Their only recent defeat came against Porto, where they lost 2-1, marking their first time conceding in five matches.

Genk’s Struggles in the Competition

In contrast, Genk has encountered challenges in the Europa League. The Belgian side has scored only once in their three league-phase games, sitting in 19th place after a mixed start. They began their campaign with a narrow 1-0 victory against Rangers but followed it with two disappointing results—a 1-0 defeat to Ferencvaros and a goalless draw against Real Betis.

Despite these setbacks, Genk arrives in Portugal on a positive note. They recently secured a 1-0 win over Westerlo, extending their unbeaten streak to six matches across all competitions. This victory also marked their fifth win on the road during this period, giving them a glimmer of hope in this crucial match.

Team News and Lineups

Braga has minimal injury concerns, with only Vitor Carvalho and Jonathas Noro sidelined. The squad remains largely intact, allowing coach Carlos Vicens to select from a full roster. Fran Navarro, Braga’s top scorer this season, could lead the line in this match.

Genk faces several challenges with their lineup. They are without right-back Zakaria El Ouahdi due to a shoulder injury. Additionally, midfielder Ibrahima Sory Bangoura and winger Junya Ito will also miss out, keeping them out of action for their third consecutive game.

Possible Lineups

Match Predictions

As Braga maintains their impressive form, they are favored to win against Genk. The prediction for this encounter is a 2-0 victory for the home side, considering their strong performances in both domestic and European competitions.