The final matchday of the Europa League group stage brings a crucial encounter between Braga and Lazio at the Estadio Municipal, also known as ‘The Quarry’. While Lazio have already secured their place in the last 16, Braga face a must-win situation to keep their European dreams alive.
The Italian side has been in imperious form throughout the competition, remaining unbeaten with six wins from seven matches. Their recent 3-1 victory over Real Sociedad at the Stadio Olimpico exemplified their strength, with Mario Gila, Mattia Zaccagni, and Taty Castellanos all finding the net.
Lazio’s success this season puts them on track to surpass their best-ever continental campaign, which saw them win eight matches during the 1999-2000 Champions League. A win in Portugal would also mark their fourth consecutive European away victory, a feat they’ve never achieved before.
For Braga, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Currently sitting in 27th place, they need a win and favorable results elsewhere to secure a playoff spot. Their recent form in the Europa League has been disappointing, with losses in their last two matches, including a defeat to Union SG where they squandered a half-time lead.
However, Braga’s domestic form offers a glimmer of hope. They’ve won their last three Primeira Liga matches, including a convincing 3-0 victory over Boavista. They’ve also progressed to the Taca de Portugal quarter-finals, showcasing their ability to perform under pressure.
Team News
Lazio manager Marco Baroni is expected to rotate his squad, with one eye on their upcoming Serie A clash with Cagliari. Key players Nicolo Rovella and Mattia Zaccagni are suspended, while Nuno Tavares joins a growing injury list. Cup goalkeeper Christos Mandas is likely to start, with Samuel Gigot returning from suspension to bolster the defense.
Braga will be without the suspended Vitor Carvalho and Bruma. Amine El Ouazzani, who has scored in two of his last three matches, is expected to lead the line, supported by captain Ricardo Horta.
Expected Starting XIs
Braga: Hornicek; Bambu, Oliveira, Niakate; Fernandes, Gorby, Moutinho, Martinez; Horta, Gharbi; El Ouazzani
Lazio: Mandas; Hysaj, Gigot, Gila, Pellegrini; Guendouzi, Dele-Bashiru; Tchaouna, Dia, Pedro; Noslin
Match Prediction
Despite Lazio’s strong record in the competition, their historical struggles in Portugal (losing five of their seven away games against Portuguese clubs) and potential squad rotation could level the playing field. Braga’s desperation for a win coupled with their recent domestic form suggests they won’t go down without a fight.
Expect an entertaining, high-scoring affair with both teams finding the net. While Braga will push hard for the win they need, Lazio’s quality should be enough to secure at least a point. A 2-2 draw seems a likely outcome, which would see Braga eliminated from the competition but Lazio maintaining their unbeaten record.
Prediction: Braga 2-2 Lazio
