Gil Vicente vs Braga: Predictions, Team News, and Lineups

Gil Vicente and Braga are set to clash in an important Primeira Liga match on Saturday evening in Barcelos. Currently, Gil Vicente sits fifth in the standings, just two points behind fourth-placed Braga. This match presents an opportunity for Gil Vicente to overtake their rivals as both teams vie for a top-four finish.

Match Preview

Gil Vicente has had an impressive campaign, despite facing challenges earlier in the season. From November 9, 2025, to January 2, the team struggled, going seven matches without a win (D6, L1). This poor run allowed Braga to seize fourth place. However, Gil Vicente has bounced back, winning three of their last four games, with the only loss coming against league leaders Porto.

The Roosters are displaying strong form, highlighted by a recent 5-0 victory over Famalicao and a 2-1 win against Moreirense, with Hector Hernandez’s late goal proving crucial. Gil Vicente currently has ten league wins this season, and their recent success against Minho oppositions includes four wins out of six encounters.

Home Advantage

Playing at home, Gil Vicente has won six of their ten Primeira Liga matches in Barcelos this season (D2, L2), maintaining momentum by winning their last two home fixtures. A win against Braga would not only secure fourth place but also mark the first league double over them in history.

Braga’s Recent Form

Braga arrives at this match in excellent form, having won their last four Primeira Liga games and scoring 13 goals without conceding. Their most recent victory was a commanding 3-0 win against Rio Ave, where Florian Grillitsch and Ricardo Horta starred. This successful streak has kept them unbeaten in six matches across all competitions (W5, D1).

This season, Braga has won 11 of 21 league matches (D6, L4) and holds the second-highest goal tally in the division with 44 goals, while only four teams have conceded fewer than their total of 18. The Archbishops will look to continue this unbeaten streak as they strengthen their position for a European spot.

Braga’s Away Performance

Braga’s away form is equally impressive, having won their last two away matches and taken five of 11 road games this season (D4, L2). Their ability to perform on the road could be crucial against Gil Vicente.

Team News

Gil Vicente heads into the match with most players fit. However, they have injury concerns, with right-back Jonathan Mutombo uncertain to play. Midfielder Mohamed Bamba and winger Sergio Bermejo are also doubts for this fixture. Following his impactful debut, winter signing Hernandez may start upfront, potentially leading to Carlos Eduardo’s exclusion.

Braga is expected to field a consistent front three, with Pau Victor leading the attack alongside Rodrigo Zalazar and Horta. They will be without key players, including Amine El Ouazzani and centre-back Sikou Niakate, who continue to recover from injuries.

Possible Starting Lineups

Gil Vicente

• Lucao
• Ze Carlos
• J Buatu
• Elimbi
• Konan
• Caseres
• Esteves
• Souza
• Garcia
• Toure
• Hernandez

Braga

• Hornicek
• Barisic
• Lagerbielke
• Arrey-Mbi
• Gomez
• Moutinho
• Grillitsch
• Martinez
• Zalazar
• P Victor
• Horta

Given the strong form of both teams, this match is expected to be competitive. A cautious approach may lead to a closely fought result, with a predicted score of Gil Vicente 1-1 Braga. This outcome could reflect the intensity and stakes of the encounter, as both teams pursue vital points in the race for the top four.