Arouca vs Vitoria Guimaraes prediction 12.08.2024 | Liga Portugal

• Competition: Liga Portugal
• Date: Monday, 12th August, 2024
• Kickoff: 20:15 UK / 21:15 CEST
• Venue: Estádio Municipal de Arouca (Arouca)

After an almost three-month break, Liga Portugal is set to restart. In the final game of the first round, Arouca will face off against Vitória Guimarães at the Estádio Municipal de Arouca.

Arouca had a solid season last year. At one point, it seemed they might secure a spot in European competitions, but they only managed to earn three points in their last five matches, which blew their chances. Ultimately, they finished 7th with 46 points, a respectable result overall. However, over the Summer, they lost some key players, and it will be interesting to see if the club has managed to find suitable replacements.

Vitória Guimarães have consistently been one of Portugal's top teams, finishing 5th and 7th in the last six years. Last year, they finished 5th, securing a spot in the Europa Conference League qualifiers. And they are doing great as they won all three games against Floriana (twice) and against Zurich. Based on these performances, Vitória Guimarães appears well-prepared for the start of the Liga Portugal season. Their expectations remain high, aiming to finish at least fifth and secure European qualification again.

Arouca vs Vitoria Guimaraes pick: Vitoria Guimaraes to (AH 0) win

Arouca had a really rough pre-season, winning just once in the last five matches. That win was an unimpressive one against Oliveirense, Portugal's second-tier team. On the other hand, Vitoria Guimaraes are on a fantastic streak. They won four friendlies, including against two very good teams - Middlesbrough and Rayo Vallecano.

Additionally, after those friendlies, Vitoria Guimaraes were great in the European games. Yes, they expectedly won against Floriana, but the last game against Zurich was particularly outstanding, as they secured a 3:0 victory away from home, completely dominating the Swiss team.

In the previous season, Vitoria Guimaraes won both h2h games. Additionally, Arouca have never won against Vitoria Guimaraes in eight games at Estádio Municipal de Arouca. Considering all the above, we believe Vitoria Guimaraes should secure a win in this Liga Portugal tie.