The Daily Star Ireland
Anderlecht has been performing well in the Europa League so far, accumulating 10 points from the first four matchdays. The Belgian side won their first three games, defeating Ferencvaros 2-1, Real Sociedad 1-2, and Ludogorets 2-0, before drawing 1-1 with Rigas FC in their most recent match.
As a result, they sit comfortably in 4th place in the standings and are well-positioned to advance to the knockout stage in February. In the Belgian Pro League, Anderlecht also occupies 4th place, following impressive victories against Kortrijk 4-0 and Cercles Bruges 0-5. They will face La Gantoise next, hoping to continue their push for a podium finish.
On the other hand, FC Porto has struggled in the Europa League, finding themselves in 22nd place in the group standings. Their campaign has been disappointing, with a loss to Bodo/Glimt 3-2 in their opener, followed by a 3-3 draw with Manchester United and a 2-0 win over Hoffenheim.
However, Porto’s fortunes took a further downturn after a 2-1 defeat to Lazio earlier this month. Domestically, Porto is also lagging behind in the title race, sitting 6 points adrift of leaders Sporting, despite being in 2nd place. They suffered a heavy 4-1 defeat to Benfica and will aim to recover in their upcoming cup match against Moreirense.
For Anderlecht, several key players are unavailable due to injury, including former Belgian internationals Jan Vertonghen and Thorgan Hazard, as well as defenders Augustinsson and midfielders Ashimeru and Dendoncker. Up front, former Nice player Dolberg, who has been in excellent form, will be a key figure. The Dane has scored 8 goals in the league and 1 in the Europa League so far this season. Porto also faces injury concerns, with defender Ivan Marcano and midfielder Marko Grujić unavailable.
FC Porto, however, can still rely on their potent offensive duo, Spanish forward Aghehowa and Brazilian winger Galeno, both of whom have scored 8 goals in the league this season. Aghehowa has also netted 4 times in the Europa League. Additionally, players like Nico González (3 goals) and Pepê (3 goals) could pose a threat.
Prediction
With Porto’s struggles in the Europa League and their poor form, it’s likely that Anderlecht will secure a win, though the Belgian side has not been in top form recently either. Anderlecht’s solid home record should give them the edge in this match.
Prediction: Anderlecht 2-1 FC Porto.
