Current Form and Context
FC Penafiel, currently leading the Segunda Liga, has demonstrated a commendable ability to secure results even when not performing at their peak. Their recent 1-1 draw against Vizela, while not ideal, maintained their lead at the top of the table. With an average of 1.61 goals per game and a high percentage of matches featuring over 1.5 goals, Penafiel's attacking prowess is evident. Key players such as Albergaria Costa Leite and Avelino have been pivotal, each contributing significantly to the team's goal tally. However, their upcoming fixture against Portimonense SAD presents a unique challenge, given the historical competitiveness between the two sides.
Portimonense SAD, positioned 12th in the Liga Portugal 2 standings, has had a mixed season under coach Ricardo Pessoa. Despite a recent 1-0 loss to União Leiria, the team has shown resilience, particularly in away matches where they hold a balanced record of 4 wins and 4 losses. The addition of Nigeria international Abraham Marcus on loan has bolstered their attacking options, potentially providing the spark needed to improve their league position. Portimonense's ability to score early, with 33% of their goals coming in the first 15 minutes, could be a crucial factor in this matchup.
Head-to-Head Analysis
Historically, matches between FC Penafiel and Portimonense SAD have been closely contested. The most common result between these teams is a 1-1 draw, occurring six times in their encounters. In their last 28 meetings, Portimonense holds a slight edge with 11 wins to Penafiel's 9, though the goal difference is marginally in Portimonense's favor at 35-34. Notably, last season saw Penafiel triumph in both fixtures against Portimonense, with a convincing 3-0 home victory and a 2-0 away win. However, the current season's dynamics suggest a more balanced contest.
Statistical Insights and Prediction
FC Penafiel's tendency to score late, with 44% of their goals coming in the final 15 minutes, contrasts with Portimonense's early scoring pattern. This dynamic could lead to a game of two halves, with Portimonense potentially taking an early lead and Penafiel responding in the latter stages. Both teams have shown vulnerabilities, with Penafiel failing to score in two home matches and Portimonense keeping clean sheets in their last three games. Given these factors, a draw appears to be the most likely outcome, with both teams finding the net. The statistical likelihood of both teams scoring is supported by their average goal-scoring records against each other, making a 1-1 draw a plausible result.
Liga Portugal 2
FC Penafielvs
Portimonense SAD
Liga Portugal 2
Maritimo Madeira
Academico de Viseu FC
Sporting Lisbon B
GD Chaves
FC Vizela
UD Leiria
SCU Torreense
SL Benfica B
CD Feirense
SC Farense
FC Pacos Ferreira
Portimonense SAD
FC Penafiel
UD Oliveirense
Leixoes SC
LaLiga
Premier League
Serie A
Bundesliga
Liga Profesional
Brasileiro Serie A