Porto host Hoffenheim at the Estadio Do Dragao in their third UEFA Europa League group stage match. Porto are still searching for their first win, while Hoffenheim will be looking to build on their positive start to the campaign. With both teams needing points, this encounter promises to be an intriguing one.
Porto Recent Form
Porto have been in fine form domestically, winning seven of their first eight Primeira Liga matches. However, their Europa League form has been less impressive, with a draw and a loss from their two outings.
In their last European match, they drew 3-3 against Manchester United after leading 3-2 before conceding a late equaliser. Despite the setbacks in Europe, Porto’s overall home record remains strong, with 20 wins from their last 25 home games.
Injury and Team News
Porto will be without key players such as Ivan Marcano (cruciate ligament injury), Zaidu Sanusi, and Fran Navarro, who is sidelined until November.
Striker Samuel Omorodion is expected to lead the attack, supported by Wenderson Galeno and Pepe. The defensive lineup could include Nehuen Perez and Ze Pedro.
Hoffenheim Recent Form
Hoffenheim’s form has been mixed, with just two wins from their last five matches in all competitions. In the Europa League, they managed a 2-0 win over Dynamo Kiev, but their overall away form is concerning.
Hoffenheim have only won three of their last 18 away games, drawing and losing the majority of them.
Injury and Team News
Hoffenheim are dealing with several injury issues, with Grischa Promel, Ozan Kabak, and Ihlas Bebou all unavailable.
There are also doubts over the fitness of Dennis Geiger and Florian Grillitsch. As a result, Kevin Akpoguma, Anton Stach, and Stanley N’Soki could feature in defence, while Tom Bischof and Umut Tohumcu are options for the midfield.
Last Hoffenheim Lineup
Hoffenheim’s lineup for their previous match was:
Porto Player To Watch
Wenderson Galeno has been one of Porto’s standout players this season, consistently providing attacking flair. With four goals and two assists in his last eight matches, he will be key to breaking down Hoffenheim’s defence.
Hoffenheim Player To Watch
Andrej Kramaric is Hoffenheim’s talisman. His creativity and goal-scoring ability make him the focal point of Hoffenheim’s attack. If Hoffenheim are to cause an upset, Kramaric will need to be at his best.
Prediction
Porto are favourites to win this match, largely due to their impressive home form and Hoffenheim’s struggles on the road. With Hoffenheim dealing with multiple injuries, Porto’s attack should be able to capitalise on defensive weaknesses.
Our Prediction: Porto 2-0 Hoffenheim
Betting Tips
Tip 1: Porto to Win
Porto’s home dominance makes them the logical choice to secure all three points.
Tip 2: Under 2.5 Goals
Hoffenheim’s injury concerns and Porto’s recent defensive solidity suggest a low-scoring game.
Tip 3: Both Teams Not to Score
Given Hoffenheim’s poor away form and Porto’s defensive record, it’s likely that only one team will score.
