Sporting have scored at least 3 goals in their last 5 matches (Liga Portugal). There have been over 2.5 goals scored in Sporting's last 5 games (Liga Portugal). Sporting have been winning at both half time and full time in 5 of their last 7 home matches (Liga Portugal). Sporting have seen under 2.5 goals in their last 3 matches against Rio Ave in all competitions.
St. Juste went off injured, but should be fine to play on Saturday, which leaves Rúben Amorim with a full squad to pick from. Rochinha and Edwards made an impact coming off the bench and one of them might feature in the starting XI here. Patrick William might recover in time, but he’s not expected to start. Despite losing to FC Vizela, Jhonathan was a standout performer and should feature in goal on Saturday. Hernâni was signed in midweek and could start from the bench.
Sporting CP should feel frustrated after securing just a point on their trip to SC Braga. After all, they went ahead three times, but their lead was pegged back each time. Their defensive coordination is not at last year’s levels and they will need to improve in that regard if they want to win their first league match. Rio Ave FC were far from impressive on their return to Primeira Liga as they lost at home to FC Vizela. The ‘Vilacondenses’ endured a disappointing second half, in which they lost a lot of duels and failed to create chances. On top of their bad moment, Rio Ave FC will not have Luís Freire on the bench, which might affect their performance. With that in mind, and combined with Sporting CP having by far the better team, an home win is the likeliest scenario. 2:1