In what promises to be an exciting Champions League clash, Real Madrid will aim to maintain their impeccable record in Group C against a formidable Braga side. Los Blancos, led by the experienced Carlo Ancelotti, are looking for their third consecutive victory in this season’s Champions League, while Braga are looking to turn things around and get back on track after a frustrating start. With the group dynamic changing, both teams are aware that this match has immense importance.
Group C dynamics
Real Madrid is at the top of Group C, with an impeccable record of two wins in two games, after defeating Unión Berlin and Napoles. Braga, on the other hand, is in third place with one win and one loss to its name. The Portuguese team’s campaign began with an unfortunate late defeat against Napoli, in which they conceded a late goal resulting in a 2-1 defeat. However, they bounced back impressively in their second group game, pulling off a thrilling comeback from two goals down to claim a 3-2 victory over Union Berlin.
Braga’s impressive form
Braga comes into this clash on a strong note, riding a five-game winning streak, which includes wins in their last three league games. Their brilliant form in the Primeira Liga has earned them 16 points from eight matches, securing them a respectable fourth position in the league standings. Surprisingly, they have a commendable record against Spanish opposition, with two wins in their last three games against Spanish clubs, all against Sevilla. Braga are primed for a historic showdown, set to take on the giants of European football for the first time since their 2012-13 Champions League campaign.
The dominance of Real Madrid
Real Madrid are currently a force to be reckoned with, not only in the Champions League but also in La Liga. The team is at the top of both competitions, with 25 points from its first 10 league games. Their journey to the Champions League began with a tight 1-0 win against Union Berlin, followed by a thrilling 3-2 win 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 have a rich history in European football, their away record of late presents an interesting challenge. They have been defeated in eight of their last 24 away games in the Champions League, recording just eight wins in the process. This statistic should give Braga the confidence to put up a formidable fight against the Spanish giants. However, Real Madrid’s overall record against Portuguese opposition is solid, with 14 wins, two draws and five losses in their last 21 matches.
Team news
- The only confirmed absence from Braga is Víctor Gómez, who is out due to a thigh problem.
- Ricardo Horta, who had a health problem, is expected to appear in the starting eleven.
- Álvaro Djalo, the team’s top scorer this season, will start alongside Bruma and Simon Banza.
- Real Madrid, for its part, will miss the services of Thibaut Courtois and Eder Militao due to long-term knee injuries.
- Dani Ceballos is also out due to a muscle injury.
- Arda Guler is approaching his first appearance for the club.
- David Alaba is expected to start in defense, while there could be a change at left back with Eduardo Camavinga.
- The decision of the starting attacker along with Vinicius Junior probably favors Rodrygo.
Predictions
In what promises to be a close match, Braga’s recent form is something Real Madrid should not underestimate. While Braga is expected to put up a good fight, Real Madrid’s superior experience and quality should ultimately help them get ahead. We anticipate a marker of Braga-Real Madrid 1-2with the visiting team achieving three crucial points.