Anderlecht vs FC Porto Prediction: 28/11/2024

Anderlecht has shown strong form in the Europa League, accumulating 10 points from their first four matches. The Belgian team started with victories over Ferencvaros (2-1), Real Sociedad (2-1), and Ludogorets (2-0) before drawing 1-1 with Rigas FC in their latest game.

This performance places them comfortably in 4th place in the standings, well-positioned to advance to the knockout stage in February. In the Belgian Pro League, Anderlecht also holds 4th place after impressive wins against Kortrijk (4-0) and Cercle Brugge (5-0). They aim to continue their strong run with an upcoming match against La Gantoise, hoping to push for a top-three finish.

Conversely, FC Porto has struggled in the Europa League, sitting in 22nd place in their group standings. Their campaign began with a 3-2 loss to Bodo/Glimt, followed by a 3-3 draw with Manchester United, and a 2-0 win over Hoffenheim. However, they faced another setback with a 2-1 defeat to Lazio earlier this month. Domestically, Porto is also trailing in the title race, 6 points behind leaders Sporting despite being in 2nd place. They suffered a heavy 4-1 loss to Benfica and will aim to bounce back in their upcoming cup match against Moreirense.

Anderlecht is currently dealing with several key injuries, including former Belgian internationals Jan Vertonghen and Thorgan Hazard, along with defenders Augustinsson and midfielders Ashimeru and Dendoncker. However, they have the in-form Kasper Dolberg, a former Nice player, who has scored 8 goals in the league and 1 in the Europa League this season.

FC Porto also faces injury issues, with defender Ivan Marcano and midfielder Marko Grujić unavailable. Despite this, they can still rely on their strong offensive duo, Spanish forward Aghehowa and Brazilian winger Galeno, both of whom have scored 8 league goals this season. Aghehowa has also netted 4 times in the Europa League. Additionally, players like Nico González and Pepê, each with 3 goals, could pose a threat.

 

Prediction

Given Porto’s struggles in the Europa League and recent poor form, it seems likely that Anderlecht will secure a win, although the Belgian side has also faced challenges recently. Anderlecht’s solid home record should give them the advantage in this match.

Prediction: Anderlecht 2-1 FC Porto.