Vitoria SC GuimaraesvsSanta Clara Azores

Current Form and Tactical Overview

Vitoria SC Guimaraes is navigating a challenging phase in the Primeira Liga, having not secured a win in their last eight league matches. Their last victory was a commanding 4-0 win over Gil Vicente on December 2, 2024. Since then, they have experienced a series of five draws and two losses, including recent defeats to Benfica and Estoril. Despite the appointment of their third manager this season, Luis Freire, the team has struggled to find form, particularly at home, where they have drawn their last three matches. This is the first time since December 2003 that Vitoria has failed to win at home in three consecutive games. However, they remain one of the top attacking teams in the league, with 28 goals scored this season, a tally surpassed by only four other teams.

Home Advantage and Historical Edge

Vitoria SC Guimaraes has a strong home record, ranking sixth in the league, with Porto being the only team to defeat them at the Estadio Dom Afonso Henriques this season. Historically, they have dominated Santa Clara Azores at home, winning five of the last seven encounters, with a goal difference of 7-2 in their favor. The most common result in these fixtures has been a 1-0 victory for Vitoria, occurring four times. Santa Clara's last away win against Vitoria was in 2020, highlighting the home side's dominance in this fixture.

Santa Clara's Struggles and Tactical Setup

Santa Clara Azores, on the other hand, has had a tumultuous season, struggling for consistency and currently sitting just above the relegation zone. They have not scored in five of their 13 away matches this season, and their recent form has been less impressive than Vitoria's. The team has also been affected by injuries and suspensions, with key players missing from their lineup. Their tactical setup has often seen them struggle to break down organized defenses, and they have a lower goal-scoring average when playing away.

Key Players and Match Dynamics

Vitoria's attacking prowess is spearheaded by key players such as da Silva Cunha, Valente Santos, and Tiago Silva, who have been instrumental in their goal tally. The team scores a significant portion of their goals between the 46th and 60th minutes, indicating a strong start to the second half. Santa Clara, meanwhile, scores 30% of their goals between the 31st and 45th minutes, but their overall goal-scoring threat is limited. With Vitoria's home advantage and historical dominance, coupled with Santa Clara's struggles, the home side is poised to secure a much-needed victory. Given the defensive solidity of both teams in recent matches, it is unlikely that both teams will score.