The Portuguese league continues its action this weekend, and the last game of the year for Benfica and Rio Ave promises to be a show-stopper. Rui Vitoria's men need to bounce back from an unexpected goal-less draw against Uniao Madeira, while Rio Ave makes a run for their second straight win, following their victorious performance against Arouca.
Benfica can't afford to lose more ground against league leader Sporting Lisbon and second place Porto, as the Red and white side is seven and five points behind the two top seeded teams. Meanwhle, a win for Rio Ave would improve their chances of overtaking Braga in the league's standings.
Benfica
The hosts have dominated the opposition while playing at Estadio Da Luz. The only team capable of beating them was Sporting, taking full advantage of the hosts' complicated moment back in October. One of Benfica's top performers, Jonás, revealed the club is trying to look on the bright side of things, despite being seven points behind league leader Sporting.
"We didn't expect to fall back this much, but there are a lot of games to be played in the league. Given all the fixtures ahead of us, we have to keep calm and trust in our skills to revert this situation," Jonas stated.
This will be the seventh home match for Benfica this season. The Eagles have won six of them, scoring 21 goals and conceding only five. Nevertheless, three of those goals where scored by Sporting, handing them a huge 3-0 defeat.
Rio Ave
The away team got out of a 3-game losing streak last week, as Pedro Martins' side managed to defeat Arouca 3-1. After a number of good outings away from home, the Villacondenses have enough motivation to defeat the hosts, since a win could take them over Braga at No. four in the league's table.
It will be crucial for Martins' defenders to keep their goal intact, something that they haven't been able to accomplish in the four most recent games. Out of their six away games this season, Rio Ave has only won one game, drawing three and losing two more.
Head to head
These teams have played against each other 33 times. Benfica has the historical lead with 23 wins, seven draws and only three losses. During their most recent matchup, Rio Ave came from behind to defeat Benfica, who had gotten a 1-0 lead before the halftime break.
Which channel is broadcasting Benfica vs Rio Ave on TV or Online?
In the U.S. at 11:00 EST on fuboTV, Premium Sports Broadband, NGSN. USA.
In Portugal at 16:00 WET on Benfica TV Portugal
In the UK at 16:00 GMT on ESPN/UK
In Canada at at 11:00 EST on Premium Sports Canada.
Live elsewhere? Simply check out our Benfica vs Rio Ave broadcast page for viewing times in your country.
*Note: Live broadcast listings are subject to change*
Match details, result and original broadcast info
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