Estrela vs Estoril Prediction 19.01.2026 | Primeira Liga

Estrela head into Monday’s clash hovering dangerously close to the relegation zone, with a modest return of 19 points from 17 top-flight fixtures leaving them 12th in the standings, just five points clear of the relegation playoff spot.

Joao Nuno’s side have shown encouraging signs of resilience in recent weeks, particularly in the attacking third, but persistent defensive frailties remain their biggest concern and must be addressed if they are to enjoy a more comfortable second half of the campaign.

A share of the spoils in a six-goal thriller against a strong Braga side last time out, which followed a dramatic 3-2 victory over Famalicão the week before, perfectly encapsulates their current form — capable of troubling any defense, yet struggling to maintain solidity at the back.

On the team news front, defender Ni remains the only absentee after failing to recover in time, while the rest of the squad is available for selection, leaving João Nuno with an almost full-strength lineup for this important mid-table encounter.

On the other side, Estoril make the short 54-kilometre trip to Amadora sitting in a relatively comfortable ninth place in the Primeira Liga standings. However, complacency is not an option, with the Canarinhos still only six points clear of the relegation zone.

They closed out 2025 in impressive fashion, edging Braga to a narrow 1-0 defeat before dismantling Alverca with a devastating 4-1 scoreline. The start of the new calendar year, however, proved far less forgiving, as Estoril succumbed to a predictable 3-1 loss away at Lisbon heavyweights Benfica.

Head coach Ian Cathro will be particularly concerned by his side’s struggles on the road. Estoril have managed to collect maximum points away from home just once all season, a problem compounded by a leaky defensive record that has seen them concede 29 league goals — a statistic that continues to undermine their efforts to build consistency.

In terms of availability, Estoril are dealing with a longer list of absentees compared to their Monday-night hosts. Ori Israel, Gonçalo Costa and experienced midfielder Xeka remain sidelined through injury, while defenders Kevin Boma and Pedro Carvalho are both one booking away from suspension, adding further caution to the visitors’ approach.