Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Primeira Liga match.
The title race in Portugal is approaching its decisive phase, and the upcoming fixture between Sporting and Braga could play a crucial role in shaping the final standings. Sporting need a win over a direct rival to move level on points with Benfica. The attacking unit of the team has maintained solid form in recent weeks.
Sporting
After being eliminated from the UEFA Champions League by Borussia Dortmund (0:3 on aggregate), Sporting have responded impressively on the domestic front, recording six straight victories since 27 February. The international break gave the team time to reset, and they returned with convincing performances — a 3:0 win over Estrela da Amadora in the league and a 2:0 triumph against Rio Ave in the Portuguese Cup. Across those two games, Sporting CP registered a combined 4.78 xG. Viktor Gyökeres has rediscovered his rhythm, contributing at least one goal involvement in every match since 15 February — tallying 9 goals and 4 assists over that period.
Braga
Braga continue to hold a steady position in the top four of the Primeira Liga, but a Champions League spot still appears unlikely. In their latest match, they fell 1:2 to Arouca, despite conceding just 0.63 xGA and allowing only one shot on target. This underlines the fragility of their defensive structure — opponents require few opportunities to find the net. Since 8 January, Braga have won only three of their eight away fixtures, losing four.
Sporting vs Braga Prediction
Sporting have scored a combined nine goals in their last two meetings with Braga (5:0 and 4:2). The team are expected to control the tempo yet again, especially in the opposition’s half. Given their current form, we anticipate Sporting to score more than 1.5 goals.
