Benfica and Braga are set to clash in a crucial Taca da Liga semi-final, with a place in the final on the line. This encounter carries a sense of deja vu as the two sides meet at this stage for the second consecutive season. Last term, Benfica emerged victorious on their way to lifting the trophy for a record eighth time. The Eagles are aiming to replicate that success in the current campaign, which has already seen them secure the Super Cup. This match is a pivotal step towards another domestic honour, but Benfica faces a demanding schedule with potential squad limitations. Benfica’s recent form has been impressive, with Jose Mourinho’s side enjoying a 22-match domestic unbeaten streak, including 16 wins. Their latest outing saw a 3-1 victory over Estoril Praia, with Vangelis Pavlidis scoring a hat-trick, placing them third in the Primeira Liga standings. However, a congested fixture list, including a potential final and a Portuguese Cup quarter-final against Porto, poses a significant challenge. The question of how Benfica will manage their squad depth given these upcoming fixtures is a key talking point. Braga, on the other hand, experienced a disappointing start to 2026, surrendering a two-goal lead in a 3-3 draw against Estrela Amadora. This result leaves them fifth in the league, and they are now without a victory in their last two matches. Their recent form, including a draw with Benfica and a single win in their last four outings, suggests a difficult task ahead. Braga’s Taca da Liga success in 2012-13, which came via penalties against Benfica, and their 2023-24 triumph, offer a glimmer of hope, but their recent head-to-head record against Benfica has been unfavorable. The answer to whether Braga can overcome their recent struggles and challenge Benfica’s dominance in this competition remains to be seen. Team news indicates that Benfica is dealing with several absentees, including Enzo Barrenechea and Antonio Silva, who were recent additions to the injury list. Alexander Bah, Nuno Felix, Bruma, Dodi Lukebakio, and Samuel Soares are also sidelined with various injuries. Braga’s recent signing Samy Merheg’s debut remains uncertain due to registration issues. Striker Amine El Ouazzani, Jonatas Noro, Gustaf Lagerbielke, and Sandro Vidigal are expected to miss the match. Defender Sikou Niakate is away on Africa Cup of Nations duty, though captain Ricardo Horta returns from suspension. Benfica’s possible starting lineup includes Trubin, Dedic, T Araujo, Otamendi, Dahl, Rios, Aursnes, Sudakov, Barreiro, Prestianni, and Pavlidis. Braga’s potential starting lineup features Hornicek, Gomez, V Carvalho, Arrey-Mbi, Lelo, Gorby, Dorgeles, Moutinho, Horta, Zalazar, and Navarro. Despite Benfica’s strong momentum, their squad depth is a concern due to numerous injuries. Braga is also facing absences and has struggled to convert performances into wins recently. However, Benfica’s pedigree in the Taca da Liga might prove decisive. We predict Benfica will secure a 2-1 victory, though they may have to fight for it. The prediction is based on Benfica carrying stronger momentum, even with injury concerns, and Braga’s recent struggles to secure wins. The crucial factor will be how Benfica manages their depleted squad through this demanding period. The head-to-head statistics and recent form both point towards a Benfica advantage, despite the challenges they face. The Taca da Liga has a history of unpredictable outcomes, but Benfica’s experience in this competition is a significant asset. Braga’s ability to secure a victory against a strong Benfica side will depend on their defensive organization and offensive efficiency. The tactical approach from both managers will be critical in determining the final outcome of this semi-final clash. This match is a key event for both clubs as they vie for a place in the Taca da Liga final. The prediction of Benfica winning 2-1 highlights the expected competitiveness of the match. The team news significantly impacts the potential lineups and strategies for both Benfica and Braga. The overall analysis suggests that while Braga has the potential to cause an upset, Benfica’s historical performance and current form give them an edge in this crucial encounter. The prediction of Benfica winning 2-1 is a balanced outlook considering both teams’ strengths and weaknesses. The question of which team will advance to the final is answered by our prediction, leaning towards Benfica.
