Rio Ave vs Porto prediction 19.09.2025 | Liga Portugal

Since Rio Ave returned to the strongest league in Portugal in 2022, they have always remained at a safe distance from relegation. Last season wasn't different as the team from Vila do Conde ended nine points above the drop zone. However, Rio Ave opened this year with three draws and a defeat in four matches. Last weekend, they lost 3-1 on the road against Moreirense. Although the teams had similar ball possession and number of shots on goal, the home side almost doubled Rio Ave's xG and left the guests without points.

Rio Ave have a tough schedule as they will play against Porto and Benfica in the next two matches. The head coach, Sotiris Sylaidopoulos, talked about the approach after a defeat in the previous round. He said, "We have to respond to this defeat. After a setback like this, maybe we can take something positive for the next games. We need more consistency. In previous games, we were good at times, but we were lacking in some details."

Rio Ave will have a full squad for Friday's game.

The last couple of years weren't the best for Porto as they have been without a trophy in the national league for three years in a row. However, five wins from five matches restored plenty of optimism for the 2025/26 season. Last weekend, Porto won 1-0 at home against Nacional. While the fans may have hoped for a more convincing scoreline, the defensive solidity on display was impressive and provides a strong foundation upon which to build.

Porto's Nehuen Perez suffered a rupture of the Achilles tendon in the previous league round and will miss the rest of the season. Besides him, Porto will also be without Alberto Costa and Martim Fernandes on Friday night, while Luuk de Jong and William Gomes are questionable, and their status will be clearer closer to the kickoff.