Braga vs Rapid Vienna: Clash of Titans in Europa League Playoff
Braga and Rapid Vienna face off at the Estadio Municipal de Braga on Thursday night in a crucial Europa League playoff clash, both vying for a place in the competition's group stage. The Archbishops enter the match on the back of a positive start to the season, while the Green and Whites are also showing impressive form.
A Glimpse into Braga's Season
Braga finished the 2023-24 Primeira Liga campaign in a strong fourth place, showcasing their prowess despite finishing a significant distance behind champions Sporting Lisbon. Their summer has seen them navigate through the Europa League qualifying rounds, overcoming Maccabi Petach Tikva and Servette to reach the playoff stage. Just 180 minutes stand between them and the group stage.
They've also started the new league season with an unbeaten record, drawing with Estrela da Amadora before securing a victory against Boavista. Carlos Carvalhal, the club's manager, brings a wealth of experience to the role, having previously managed in England with Sheffield Wednesday and Swansea City. Braga's European pedigree is undeniable, having competed in the Champions League group stage last season.
Rapid Vienna's Momentum
Rapid Vienna have also enjoyed a remarkable start to their season, remaining undefeated in their eight matches across the Austrian Bundesliga, Austria Cup, and Europa League qualifying. Their European journey has seen them overcome Polish side Wisla Krakow and Turkish team Trabzonspor with resounding victories. Their recent league performance was equally impressive, securing a comfortable 2-0 win over WSG Tirol.
Serge Raux Yao, a summer signing from Ligue 2 club Rodez, is expected to play a key role in the defence, having already made a strong impact in the competition.
Team News and Potential Lineups
Braga will be boosted by the availability of Roberto Fernandez, who scored the winning goal against Boavista. This could lead to Amine El Ouazzani, who scored against Servette in the qualifying rounds, being relegated to the bench.
Rapid Vienna, on the other hand, will be without Bernhard Zimmermann, who suffered a cruciate ligament injury last season. Fellow winger Thierry Gale is also sidelined due to the same injury, with his return expected next month. Noah Bischof, nursing a muscle injury, remains unavailable for the match.
Possible Starting Lineups:
Braga: Matheus; Gomez, Niakate, Arrey-Mbi, Marin; Carvalho, Zalazar, Moutinho; Horta, Bruma, Fernandez.
Rapid Vienna: Hedl; Bolla, Cvetkovic, Yao, Auer; Grgic, Sangare, Seidl, Schaub, Jansson; Burgstaller.
Prediction:
Given Braga's strong start to the season and their home advantage, they are favourites to emerge victorious. Rapid Vienna's unbeaten run is commendable, but they face a daunting task against a formidable opponent.
Our Prediction: Braga 2-1 Rapid Vienna.
