Tondela vs Rio Ave prediction 09.03.2026 | Liga Portugal Betclic

Tondela’s return to the Portuguese top flight has proven difficult, with the club spending much of the campaign in the relegation zone. After 24 matches, they have recorded just four wins but have shown signs of improvement in recent weeks: Cristiano Bacci’s men are currently on a five-game unbeaten league run, although four of those matches have ended in draws.

The hosts hold the second-worst attacking record in the division, with 19 goals scored in 24 league fixtures. However, their attacking potency has shown some spark during this five-game unbeaten streak, with Tondela scoring seven goals during that run alone - accounting for nearly 40% of their total goal tally for the season.

Forward Pedro Maranhão has been one of the team’s key attacking outlets this season, contributing six goals and leading the club’s scoring chart. However, the team’s low scoring average suggests that offensive support has been limited.

Rio Ave find themselves in a slightly better position in the table but remain firmly involved in the relegation fight. They have also recorded just four wins but possess a slightly more potent attack, with 23 goals in 24 Liga Portugal matches.

Their recent form, however, has been much worse compared to Tondela’s, as they have endured a seven-game winless streak, six of which were defeats. Last weekend, they finally ended a miserable losing run with an uninspiring 0-0 draw against Famalicão, which could serve as a small momentum boost.

The Vila do Conde side have shown slightly stronger attacking numbers than their opponents, averaging just over one goal per match. Brazilian striker Clayton has been the standout performer with ten league goals, making him one of the more productive forwards outside the league’s top clubs.