The Primeira Liga returns this weekend, however giants FC Porto are being forced to wait until Wednesday before they get their campaign underway. Former Porto player Sérgio Conceição has taken over at the Estádio do Dragão over the summer, with the 27-time title winners having finished as runners up to rivals Benfica last time around.
An opening league fixture with Estoril Praia represents the perfect opportunity to begin their campaign with three points, despite Pedro Emanuel’s men having finished last season in fine form. With the Portuguese top-flight having long been a favourite among betting customers, due to the dominance of the biggest teams, many bets are expected on this encounter. Baring that in mind, let’s take a closer look at the two teams, as well as our top betting tip, which is well worth taking advantage of.
FC Porto
Having finished six points behind Benfica last season, Porto have made changes both on and off the field. Having been on-loan at Porto last season, Atletico Madrid midfielder, Oliver Torres, has joined for big money, with new manager, Conceição, undoubtedly delighted to have the Spaniard among his playing squad for the coming season. However, having lost star men in the form of Andre Silva and Ruben Neves, it remains to be seen how Porto will fair in the opening stages of the new season. However, their pre-season form demonstrates that they may well get off to a good start, having comfortably beaten the likes of Gil Vicente, Deportivo La Coruna and Portimonense.
Estoril Praia
Estoril finished in mid-table last season, however they have already lost some of their best performers over the last 12 months, with the likes of Leo Bonatini, Diego Carlos and Anderson Esiti having left the Estádio António Coimbra da Mota over recent weeks. Despite this, two consecutive victories on the road during pre-season will give the team hope, with just a single defeat to English Premier Leagu side AFC Bournemouth having dented their form over recent weeks.
Top Betting Tip
FC Porto are an extremely difficult side to beat in front of their home fans, with their pre-season form having demonstrated that they are highly motivated to regain their title. Baring all of this in mind, our top betting tip for the match is to back Porto to win both halves during the game, which can be found at best odds of 8/13 at Ladbrokes.