Current Form and Recent Performances
Rio Ave FC, currently positioned 10th in the Liga ZON Sagres, has experienced a season of fluctuating fortunes. Their recent victory against Farense, a 1-2 away win, has provided a slight uplift in their standings. However, their inconsistency is evident, with a record of 3 wins, 1 draw, and 2 losses in their last six matches. The team has struggled defensively, conceding 32 goals in 19 matches, and has managed to keep a clean sheet in only 3 games. Offensively, they have been somewhat more reliable, scoring 20 goals, with Clayton being the standout performer with 12 goals.
Vitoria SC Guimaraes, on the other hand, is enduring a challenging period, having not secured a win in their last eight league games. Despite this, they remain a potent attacking force, having scored 28 goals this season. Their recent form includes five draws and two losses, and they have struggled particularly at home, drawing their last three matches. The recent appointment of manager Luis Freire has yet to yield the desired turnaround in fortunes. However, their attacking prowess remains a threat, with key players like da Silva Cunha and Tiago Silva contributing significantly.
Head-to-Head Analysis
Historically, Vitoria SC Guimaraes has had the upper hand in encounters with Rio Ave FC, winning 21 out of 48 meetings. However, when playing at Rio Ave's home ground, the results are more balanced, with Vitoria winning 9 times and Rio Ave 7 times, alongside 9 draws. The most common result in these fixtures has been a 0-1 victory for Vitoria, occurring 8 times. Last season's encounters ended in a 2-2 draw at Rio Ave and a 3-0 victory for Vitoria at home.
Statistical Insights and Predictions
Both teams have shown a propensity for matches with goals from both sides. Rio Ave has seen both teams score in 17 of their 19 matches, while Vitoria has failed to score in 4 of their 6 away matches this season. Despite Vitoria's recent struggles, their attacking capabilities suggest they are likely to find the net against a Rio Ave side that has conceded in each of their last 5 matches.
Given the current form and historical context, a draw appears to be the most probable outcome. Both teams are likely to score, considering their respective defensive vulnerabilities and attacking strengths. The match is expected to be closely contested, with neither side having a decisive edge. Therefore, a 1-1 draw seems a plausible result, reflecting the average goals scored by both teams in their encounters.