Braga vs CFR Cluj Prediction, Preview, News, Odds: 14/8/2025

Braga head into the second leg of their Europa League third qualifying round clash with a narrow 2-1 advantage over CFR Cluj, earned in a hard-fought victory in Romania. Managed by Artur Jorge, the Portuguese side showcased resilience in the first leg and will now look to make their home advantage at the Estádio Municipal de Braga count. Their European campaign so far has included a tense extra-time win over Lugano in the previous round, highlighting both their fighting spirit and occasional inconsistency.

Álvaro Djaló continues to be Braga’s main attacking outlet, while Sandro Vidigal’s creativity has been key in unlocking defenses. At home, Braga have been a formidable force in recent European qualifiers, and with a place in the playoff round—against either Lincoln Red Imps or Noah—on the line, the motivation is high. Their defensive structure, marshaled by Vítor Tormena, will be crucial in keeping Cluj’s counter-attacks at bay.

Cluj’s Uphill Battle

CFR Cluj, under the experienced Dan Petrescu, come into the return leg with their European hopes hanging in the balance. While their continental form has been spirited, their domestic campaign in Romania has stumbled, producing only four points from their opening four league fixtures. Their narrow passage past Lugano—secured by a dramatic stoppage-time winner from Sheriff Sinyan—showed their ability to grind out results, but consistency remains an issue.

The arrivals of Pau Victor, Mario Dorgeles, and PSG loanee Gabriel Moscardo have added fresh options, yet the team’s away form and lack of cutting edge in the final third remain concerns. Although Cluj famously beat Braga twice during the 2012–13 Champions League group stage, much has changed since then. Braga’s growth and experience in European qualifiers over the last decade make this a far more challenging encounter for the Romanians.

Prediction

This contest is expected to be close, with both sides capable of moments of quality but also prone to lapses. Braga’s tactical discipline, home crowd, and depth give them the edge, though Cluj’s history of upsetting the odds means they can’t be completely written off. Controlling midfield spaces and limiting Braga’s wide play will be essential if Petrescu’s side are to mount a comeback.

Given the form guide and defensive tendencies, a low-scoring affair seems likely. Braga have seen under 2.5 goals in 16 of their last 20 home matches at this stage of European competition, while Cluj’s recent fixtures have followed a similar pattern.

Prediction: Braga 1–0 CFR Cluj.