CD Nacional - Rio Ave FC ai prediction 25.01.2026 Primeira Liga

Preview for match CD Nacional vs Rio Ave FC

As the Primeira Liga enters its 19th matchday, the upcoming clash between CD Nacional and Rio Ave FC promises to be a significant encounter for both teams. Scheduled for Sunday, January 25, 2026, at 16:30, this match will take place at the Estádio da Madeira, a venue that often serves as a fortress for the home side. Currently, CD Nacional finds itself in a precarious position, holding the 13th spot in the league with just 17 points accrued from 18 matches. Their record of four victories, five draws, and nine defeats illustrates a season plagued by inconsistency and missed opportunities. Notably, Nacional has scored 22 goals while conceding 28, indicating defensive vulnerabilities that could be exploited by their opponents.

On the other hand, Rio Ave FC sits slightly higher in the league, positioned 11th with a total of 20 points. Their performance thus far has resulted in four wins, eight draws, and six defeats, with a goal tally of 22 scored and 31 conceded. The away record of Rio Ave has been less than stellar, with two wins, five draws, and two defeats, suggesting they struggle to convert home advantage into points when playing away. Both teams have shown a tendency to share points in recent encounters, as evidenced by their last direct meeting, which ended in a 1-1 draw. This context sets the stage for what could be a tightly contested match, with both sides desperate for a win to bolster their league positions.

Our betting tip for the match CD Nacional vs Rio Ave FC

Our betting prediction for this match strongly favors a home win for CD Nacional. With odds of 2.29 at Betika, the potential for a favorable outcome seems promising. Nacional’s recent form, although not stellar, shows a glimmer of hope with a victory in one of their last five matches. Furthermore, playing at home could provide the necessary boost to secure three crucial points.

In addition to the primary betting tip, we also predict that both teams will score during this encounter. The odds for this outcome are set at 1.80 with Mozzart, reflecting the likelihood of an open game where both sides capitalize on defensive lapses.

Our tips

Total Goals

Over 3.5

There have been over 3.5 goals scored in 3 of CD Nacional's last 5 matches.

There have been over 3.5 goals scored in 3 of Rio Ave FC's last 5 matches.

Top odds at bet365

Total Goals

Over 2.5

There have been over 2.5 goals scored in 5 of CD Nacional's last 5 matches.

There have been over 2.5 goals scored in 3 of Rio Ave FC's last 5 matches.

Top odds at 1xBet

Total Goals

Over 1.5

There have been over 1.5 goals scored in 5 of CD Nacional's last 5 matches.

There have been over 1.5 goals scored in 4 of Rio Ave FC's last 5 matches.

Top odds at Betway

AI prediction for the match CD Nacional vs Rio Ave FC

Based on statistical analysis and performance metrics, the AI prediction for this match leans towards a 2-1 victory for CD Nacional. This forecast takes into account both teams' recent struggles in defense and their respective scoring capabilities. With Nacional having the home advantage, the forecast suggests they will be able to convert their chances into goals, while also conceding at least once due to their defensive weaknesses.

CD Nacional performance check

CD Nacional's performance this season has been a mixed bag, with the team struggling to find consistency. Under the management of Tiago Margarido, they have recorded four wins, five draws, and nine defeats. The team’s home record has been particularly concerning, with only two wins from eight matches played at the Estádio da Madeira. Their inability to secure points at home has placed them in the lower echelons of the league table. However, the recent match performance indicates a slight upward trajectory, which could be pivotal in their fight for survival in the league.

How is the current performance of Rio Ave FC

Rio Ave FC, coached by Sotiris Sylaidopoulos, has had a challenging season thus far, marked by inconsistency. With a total of 20 points, their record of four wins, eight draws, and six defeats highlights their struggles to convert draws into victories. Their away form, particularly, has left much to be desired, with only two wins from nine matches. Despite these challenges, the team has shown resilience, managing to score 22 goals, though their defensive setup has been frail, conceding 31 goals. This combination of factors suggests that while they are competitive, they need to tighten their defense to improve their standing in the league.

Last direct match

The last direct encounter between CD Nacional and Rio Ave FC ended in a 1-1 draw, a result that showcased the competitive nature of both squads.

Head-to-head last direct meetings

In their last five meetings across all competitions, the teams have had a balanced record: CD Nacional has secured one win, while Rio Ave has achieved two victories, in addition to two draws. This parity reflects the closely matched nature of both sides.

Performance last 5 matches

In their last five outings, CD Nacional has managed one win, two draws, and two defeats, showcasing an inconsistent form. Similarly, Rio Ave has recorded one win, one draw, and three losses, indicating a troubling trend as they struggle to find form.

Performance

CD Nacional

Last games

CD Nacional performance of the last 4 home matches

Victories

25%

Over 2.5

75%

Rio Ave FC

Last games

Rio Ave FC performance of the last 6 away matches

Victories

33%

Over 2.5

83%

Last match results CD Nacional and Rio Ave FC

In their most recent fixtures, CD Nacional suffered a 1-2 loss away against Gil Vicente, while Rio Ave FC faced a disappointing home defeat, losing 0-2 to SL Benfica. Both teams will be eager to bounce back and secure a vital win.

Best odds and our betting tip

The best available odds for this match indicate a favorable outlook for betting enthusiasts. With the odds for a home win at 2.29 from Betika and the option for both teams to score at 1.80 from Mozzart, our experience with these betting sites suggests that they offer competitive rates. For those interested in placing wagers, we encourage exploring the best betting sites in our bookmaker comparison to find the most advantageous options.

Conclusion on the match

In conclusion, CD Nacional appears to be the favorites heading into this encounter, especially given their home advantage and the necessity to secure points to climb the league table. The combination of their improving form and the need for a win makes them a strong candidate for victory. We anticipate a close match, potentially ending in a 2-1 scoreline in favor of Nacional.

Here are tomorrow's betting tips for those looking to expand their wagering options as the Primeira Liga continues to unfold.