Porto have won their last 8 home matches (Liga Portugal). Porto have scored at least 3 goals in 7 of their last 8 home matches (Liga Portugal). Braga have won their last 6 matches (Liga Portugal). Porto have been winning at both half time and full time in 7 of their last 8 home matches (Liga Portugal). Porto have kept a clean sheet in 6 of their last 8 home matches (Liga Portugal). Porto are undefeated in 19 of their last 21 home matches against Braga in all competitions. Braga have scored at least 3 goals in their last 3 away matches (Liga Portugal). There have been over 2.5 goals scored in 7 of Porto's last 8 home games (Liga Portugal). Braga have kept a clean sheet in 5 of their last 6 matches (Liga Portugal). Braga have been winning at both half time and full time in their last 3 away matches (Liga Portugal). There have been over 2.5 goals scored in Braga's last 4 away games (Liga Portugal).
Pepe got injured prior to the International break and might not feature here. Ivan Marcano would be his likely replacement. Otávio is also doubtful for Friday's match. André Franco replaced him last time around and might feature once again if the Portuguese International fails to recover. Marko Grujic could also replace Otávio if Sérgio Conceição opts for a more physical midfield. Vitinha made an impact from the bench against FC Vizela and could replace Abel Ruiz upfront. With muscular discomfort, Al Musrati might be rested here, with Uros Racic starting in the middle of the park. Djaló, Medeiros and Lainez will be in competition to start out wide.
The International break came at the right time for FC Porto, who had an awful series of results. They've lost 4-0 to Club Brugge at home before being held to a 1-1 draw by GD Estoril-Praia. They're vociferous supporters will demand an energetic reaction here. SC Braga are enjoying a wonderful start of the season as they remain unbeaten after 9 matches across all competitions. Artur Jorge' men won 8 of those games, and only Sporting CP were able to avoid a defeat to the Minho Warriors. This will be SC Braga's biggest challenge of the season as they face last year's champions on their home soil. However, they have beaten FC Porto in 5 of the last 9 matches between the sides, which gives them hope to stretch their wonderful start to the season. 1:2