Rio Ave FC - SL Benfica ai prediction 16.03.2025 Primeira Liga

Preview for Match Rio Ave FC vs SL Benfica

As the Primeira Liga continues to unfold, matchday 26 features an intriguing encounter between Rio Ave FC and SL Benfica. Scheduled for Sunday, March 16, 2025, at 19:00, the match will take place at the Estádio do Rio Ave F.C. This fixture is of considerable importance, given the contrasting fortunes of the two teams in the league.

Rio Ave FC finds itself in the middle of the table, currently positioned 10th with 29 points. The team has recorded 7 victories, 8 draws, and 10 defeats this season, resulting in a goal tally of 27:40. At home, Rio Ave has been relatively solid, boasting 5 wins, 6 draws, and only 1 defeat, indicating their ability to compete effectively on their turf. However, recent form suggests a decline in performance, with the team managing only 1 win in their last 5 matches, alongside 2 draws and 2 defeats. This culminated in a disappointing away loss to FC Famalicão in their last outing, which could further dampen their confidence.

In stark contrast, SL Benfica is enjoying a remarkable season, currently sitting 2nd in the league with 56 points, just below the league leaders. The Eagles have amassed an impressive record of 18 wins, 2 draws, and 4 defeats, with a striking goal difference of 56:18. Their away record reflects their dominance, with 6 wins, 2 draws, and 3 defeats. However, their recent form has been mixed, as they suffered a 1:3 defeat against FC Barcelona in their last match, which will likely serve as motivation to bounce back strongly in the league.

The historical context of this matchup adds an additional layer of intrigue. The last direct meeting between these two teams saw SL Benfica triumph with a commanding 5:0 victory, further emphasizing their superiority in head-to-head encounters. In their last five meetings across all competitions, Rio Ave has not managed a single victory, recording just 1 draw and 4 losses against the Lisbon giants.

Our Betting Tip for the Match Rio Ave FC vs SL Benfica

Our betting prediction for the upcoming clash between Rio Ave FC and SL Benfica leans heavily towards an away win for SL Benfica (Tip 2). Given their current form, league standing, and historical dominance over Rio Ave, the Eagles appear poised to secure all three points. Additionally, we also anticipate that both teams will score in this encounter, making our second tip: "Both teams will score? Yes."

Our tips

Double Chance

1X

Rio Ave FC have won or drawn 2 of their last 4 matches.

SL Benfica have drawn or lost 3 of their last 6 matches.

Top odds at 1xBet

Total Goals

Under 3.5

There have been under 3.5 goals scored in 4 of Rio Ave FC's last 4 matches.

There have been under 3.5 goals scored in 4 of SL Benfica's last 6 matches.

Top odds at Betway

Total Goals

Under 4.5

There have been under 4.5 goals scored in 4 of Rio Ave FC's last 4 matches.

There have been under 4.5 goals scored in 5 of SL Benfica's last 6 matches.

Top odds at Betway

AI Prediction for the Match Rio Ave FC vs SL Benfica

The AI betting tip for this match suggests that SL Benfica is the clear favorite to win, given their impressive track record and current form. Predicting a scoreline of 3:1 in favor of SL Benfica seems plausible, considering their attacking prowess and Rio Ave's defensive vulnerabilities. The statistical analysis indicates a high likelihood of Benfica scoring multiple goals while Rio Ave may find the back of the net at least once.

Rio Ave FC Performance Check

Rio Ave FC's performance has been decidedly mixed this season. Under the guidance of coach Armando Gonçalves Teixeira, also known as Petit, the team has shown flashes of brilliance but has struggled for consistency. They currently sit 10th in the league table, which is a far cry from their aspirations for the season. With only 1 win in their last 5 matches, the team faces pressure to regain form and deliver a strong performance against a formidable opponent. The upcoming match against Benfica presents a significant challenge, but also an opportunity for redemption.

How is the Current Performance of SL Benfica

SL Benfica, managed by Bruno Miguel Silva do Nascimento, is enjoying a stellar season and remains a strong contender for the league title. With 56 points, they are in excellent form and have demonstrated their quality on the pitch. Despite suffering a recent setback against FC Barcelona, their overall statistics reveal a team capable of overwhelming their opponents. The Eagles' attacking options and solid defense position them as favorites in this crucial match against Rio Ave FC.

Head-to-Head Last Direct Meetings

In analyzing the head-to-head record, it is evident that SL Benfica has maintained a dominant position over Rio Ave FC. In their last five encounters, Rio Ave has failed to secure a victory, resulting in 4 losses and just 1 draw. The most recent match concluded with a resounding 5:0 victory for Benfica, underscoring their strength in this matchup.

Performance Last 5 Matches

Examining the recent performances of both teams, Rio Ave FC has recorded 1 win, 2 draws, and 2 defeats in their last five matches. In contrast, SL Benfica has achieved 3 wins alongside 2 losses, showcasing their resilience and competitive edge.

Performance

Rio Ave FC

Last games

Rio Ave FC performance of the last 4 home matches

Victories

50%

Over 2.5

75%

SL Benfica

Last games

SL Benfica performance of the last 6 away matches

Victories

66%

Over 2.5

50%

Last Match Results for Rio Ave FC and SL Benfica

In their last outings, Rio Ave FC suffered a narrow 0:1 defeat against FC Famalicão, while SL Benfica faced a more challenging scenario with a 1:3 loss away to FC Barcelona. These results may influence the mindset and preparations of both teams as they head into this significant fixture.

Best Odds and Our Betting Tip

For this match, the best odds available include Tip 1 (Rio Ave FC) at 9.00 from Mozzart, Tip X (Draw) at 5.25 from Gbets, and Tip 2 (SL Benfica) at 1.44 from Betano. Given our extensive experience with various betting sites, we confidently recommend SL Benfica to win this encounter. Furthermore, we suggest exploring options for both teams to score, which has a favorable odd of 1.85 at Mozzart.

Conclusion on the Match

In conclusion, the upcoming match between Rio Ave FC and SL Benfica promises to be an intriguing contest. Given SL Benfica's current form, superior league position, and historical dominance, they are rightfully favored to emerge victorious. A predicted scoreline of 3:1 in favor of Benfica seems plausible, with both teams expected to find the net at least once.

For those interested in future betting opportunities, here are the best betting tips for tomorrow.