Rio Ave vs Portimonense
Portuguese Primeira Liga
Sunday
7th January 2024
Estádio do Rio Ave
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the Portuguese Primeira Liga fixture between Rio Ave and Portimonense.
Rio Ave vs Portimonense: Preview
Rio Ave form analysis
Ave’s recent league form has been inconsistent despite some encouraging performances. After coming from behind to draw 1-1 away to Gil Vicente on November 12th, Rio Ave played out a similar 1-1 home draw with Estrela on December 2nd, taking the lead but conceding late. They then produced an impressive attacking display to lead 2-0 away at Arouca after half an hour on December 10th, before the hosts completed a second half comeback to draw 2-2. Rio Ave secured another draw in their next match, battling back from 1-0 down to tie 1-1 at home with Vizela on December 16th.
However, defensive fragility caught up with them in a 0-1 home defeat to Vitória Guimarães on December 23rd, conceding from the penalty spot. Overall, Rio Ave has shown admirable determination and attacking threat to battle back when behind in matches, but struggle to protect leads once going ahead. Sorting out defensive weaknesses and concentration seem paramount to help Rio Ave push up the table in 2023. With talents like Boateng and Aderllan Santos contributing in attack, cutting out individual errors that lead to cheap goals seems key for Rio Ave to start translating positive play into more wins.
Portimonense form analysis
Portimonense have struggled for consistent results recently. After a 2-1 home win over Chaves on November 11th, they suffered a 0-1 defeat away at Casa Pia on December 3rd. Despite going close through several chances, Portimonense failed to break down the Casa Pia defence. They stabilized with a 1-1 draw at home against Famalicão on December 9th, equalizing through Hélio Varela after going behind. However, Portimonense were then thrashed 2-5 at home by Moreirense on December 17th in a shock result.
Despite leading twice through Maracás and Filipe Relvas goals, defensive errors allowed Moreirense to run rampant. Portimonense ended 2023 with another home defeat, losing 1-2 to title challengers Sporting CP on December 31st. Despite Relvas equalizing to make it 1-1, they conceded late to Paulinho and rued missed chances to get back level. Overall, Portimonense’s form has declined after a decent start to the season. Creating chances has not been an issue with the likes of R. Carrillo and S. Jasper leading the attack. However, tightening up defensively and eradicating individual errors must be priorities to turn results around in the second half of the campaign.
