Porto vs Rangers: Gers Face Tough Challenge in Dragons’ Den Predictions
Porto will host Rangers in a crucial Europa League clash on January 29. The match is set to kick off at 8 PM GMT at the Estadio do Dragao in Porto. The outcome of this game could significantly impact both teams’ standings in their respective competitions.
Match Background
Porto currently sits ninth in the Europa League standings, just outside the top eight. They believe that victory over Rangers will strengthen their chances of advancing beyond the playoff round. Conversely, Rangers have struggled this season, leading to a disappointing European campaign.
Rangers’ Current Form
Rangers recently experienced a resurgence, securing a 3-0 victory against Dundee. However, their floundering start to the season means they have little left to achieve in Europe. Under new manager Danny Rohl, who took over in October, Rangers have only accumulated four points from seven league-phase matches.
- Rangers have lost all three away games in the Europa League.
- They scored just twice in these encounters.
- Their domestic focus may hinder their performance in Portugal.
Porto’s Impressive Defense
In contrast, Porto’s defense has been formidable. The squad has won nine of their last ten matches, conceding only four goals during this stretch. They have maintained an unbeaten home record in the league since early December.
- Porto has not conceded an away goal in their last three home matches.
- They seek to secure a place among the top eight in the Europa League.
Key Players to Watch
Samuel Aghehowa has emerged as a standout player for Porto, scoring 16 goals this season, including eight in his last nine matches. His prowess in front of goal makes him a key threat against Rangers.
- Aghehowa averages over 2 shots on target per match this season.
- He scored a brace in his last home Europa League appearance against Malmo.
Injuries and Team News
For Porto, Thiago Silva is ineligible, while Luuk de Jong and Nehuen Perez may also not play. Their probable starting lineup includes:
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | D Costa |
| Defender | A Costa, Kiwior, Bednarek, Fernandes |
| Midfielder | Froholdt, Rosario, Veiga |
| Forward | Pepe, Aghehowa, Sainz |
On the Rangers side, injuries will affect their lineup as well. Andreas Skov Olsen and Tochi Chukwuani are unavailable, and several players are sidelined.
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | Butland |
| Defender | Tavernier, Djiga, Fernandez, Meghoma |
| Midfielder | Raskin, Diomande |
| Forward | Gassama, Aasgaard, Moore, Miovski |
Betting Insights
Porto is heavily favored to win, with odds at 1-4, while Rangers stand at 10-1. A draw is available at 9-2. Given Porto’s home advantage and current form, they are expected to perform strongly against a struggling Rangers side. The match promises to be a crucial test for both teams.
