Real Madrid vs Braga
UEFA Champions League
Wednesday
8th November 2023
Santiago Bernabeu
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the UEFA Champions League matchday 4 fixture between Real Madrid and Braga.
Real Madrid vs Braga: Preview
Real Madrid form analysis
Madrid’s recent run of games has showcased an inconsistent attack capable of brilliance but also concerning stretches of sterility. They started in scintillating fashion, tearing Osasuna apart 4-0 at home with Bellingham grabbing a brace alongside goals from Vinicius Jr. and Joselu. However, problems surfaced in attack in their next game – a 1-1 away draw at Sevilla where they relied on a scrappy late Carvajal goal to claim a point.
Back on form in Europe, Madrid impressively won 2-1 away at Braga thanks to strikes from Rodrygo and Bellingham either side of Djaló’s response. But their offensive struggles returned in a dramatic 2-1 Clasico win over rivals Barcelona – again relying on Bellingham’s brilliance for both goals despite spells of passive play. Most recently they were held to a drab goalless home draw by Rayo Vallecano, devoid of attacking spark besides hopeful crosses. Overall, Madrid have shown they can turn it on in attack but need greater consistency game-to-game.
Braga form analysis
Sporting Braga’s recent run of games has showcased an exciting attack full of flair but defensive issues leaving them exposed. They started with a comfortable 2-0 away cup win over Rebordosa thanks to goals from Rony Lopes and Djaló. However, problems surfaced at the back in a 1-2 home loss to Real Madrid in the Champions League, going behind early before Djaló’s temporary reply.
Their frailties at the back were evident again as they drew a six goal thriller away at Gil Vicente – twice leading through Banza and Horta but pegged back in a 3-3 draw. Braga then failed to build momentum, drawing 1-1 at home with Casa Pia in the cup after taking the lead. Most recently they got back on track with an emphatic 6-1 home win over Portimonense. With Banza netting a hat-trick alongside goals from Horta, Djaló and an own goal. Overall, Braga boasts real attacking talents but their defensive inconsistencies have often undermined their promise.
