"Sporting de Braga is the favorite because it is better than Rio Ave"

Franclim Carvalho, the coach of Sporting de Braga, declared his team as favorites against Rio Ave, citing their superior quality. Braga recently ended a four-match winless streak with a 3-0 victory over Famalicão. Despite Rio Ave's struggles, Carvalho acknowledged their coaching quality but emphasized Braga's need to demonstrate their superiority on the field. He aims to improve Braga's league position and utilize the upcoming break for training. Carvalho also mentioned the team's full availability, except for long-term injured Niakaté, and expressed a desire for a dedicated left-back while praising current players in that role. The match is set for Sunday at 20:30 in Vila do Conde.