Anticipated Analysis: Braga versus CFR Cluj - Wagering Suggestions, Squad Updates, Crucial Facts
Braga, fresh from a recent league win and holding a slender aggregate lead from the first leg, prepare to host CFR Cluj in the Europa League qualification second leg at Estádio Municipal. 1
Braga's Form and Team News
Manager Carlos Vicens is expected to field key players such as skipper Ricardo Horta and vice-captain João Moutinho, who will likely start alongside Jean-Baptiste Gorby in midfield. The forward positions present a tough selection dilemma for Vicens, with Amine El Ouazzani, Pau Victor, Fran Navarro (who recently had his loan made permanent), and Mario Dorgeles all vying for starting spots. Goalkeeper Lukas Hornicek, Paulo Oliveira, and Gorby are expected to keep their places from the first leg. 3
CFR Cluj's Struggles and Team News
After conceding defeat in the first leg, CFR Cluj had the weekend off and presumably kept their core squad intact for a potential comeback. Louis Munteanu, their key attacking player, will lead the line, but Adrian Paun, Romanian international and winger, is ruled out due to injury. Kenneth Omeruo, Karlo Muhar, and Lindon Emerllahu remain sidelined due to injuries, as well. Sheriff Sinyan and Mateo Ilie are set to partner at the heart of CFR Cluj's defence. 2
Recent Performances
Braga have been in impressive form since the summer break, with only one defeat in their previous 13 competitive matches. In contrast, CFR Cluj have failed to win any of their last 6 appearances across all formats within 90 minutes. 4
Match Facts
- Braga have not suffered a defeat at home this calendar year.
- CFR Cluj have only managed a single away victory since the start of February, continuing from last season.
- Fran Navarro, a one-time Valencia youngster, will lead the line for Braga.
- Gorby, an academy graduate from Braga, will start in the middle of the park.
- Adrian Paun, Romanian international, is expected to be absent for CFR Cluj due to an injury sustained in domestic duties earlier in the month.
- The match is being played at Estadio Municipal.
- Olympusbet is the bookmaker for the match.
- Best odds for the match are 2/5.
The actual lineups will be confirmed about one hour before kickoff. As Braga aim to advance in the Europa League, they will be up against a struggling CFR Cluj side.
Footnotes
[1]: Source 1 [2]: Source 2 [3]: Source 3 [4]: Source 4
1The sports news regarding the upcoming Europa League qualification second leg between Braga and CFR Cluj reveals that Braga's manager Carlos Vicens is planning to include key players like skipper Ricardo Horta, vice-captain João Moutinho, and Fran Navarro (who recently made his loan deal permanent) in the team news for the match.
2On the other hand, CFR Cluj's team news suggests that they will be relying on their key attacking player, Louis Munteanu, despite the injury absence of Adrian Paun, their Romanian international winger.
