League leaders Benfica host local rivals Sporting at the Estadio da Luz on Sunday (January 15) in the latest edition of the Primeira Liga Lisbon Derby.
Benfica bounced back from their first defeat of the league campaign on New Year’s Eve against Braga with a 1-0 win against Portimonense at home on Saturday. They continued their winning streak at Taca de Portugal on Wednesday, with goals from Alex Grimaldo and Enzo Fernández helping them to a 2-0 win.
Sporting, meanwhile, have suffered a slow start to their league campaign and sit fourth in the table, 12 points behind Benfica. They ended their three-game winning streak in the league with a 1-0 defeat at Maritimo.
Benfica vs Sporting Head to head and key numbers
- The two Lisbon rivals have met 314 times in competitive games since 1934. The hosts are 137-112.
- Benfica have been in incredible form this season, winning 13 of their last 15 league games.
- The hosts have scored over 2.5 goals in their last six home games against Sporting in different competitions.
- Their last 11 meetings have produced conclusive results, with Benfica winning seven.
- Their last four matches at Benfica have yielded over 2.5 goals, with Sporting winning 3-1 in the league in December 2021.
- Benfica have the best offensive record in the competition, scoring 38 goals in 15 matches and conceding just ten, which is the best defensive record in the competition.
Prediction Benfica vs Sporting
Benfica have a 100% record at home in the Primeira Liga and have kept two clean sheets in their last three games. However, they have not kept a clean sheet in their last nine home games against Sporting.
Sporting, meanwhile, have failed to score in two of their last three away games in the league and failed to score for the first time in eight games in their previous outing. Pedro Goncalves is back in training, which should be a welcome boost. Joao Mario has been in good form for Benfica and will be a key player here.
Benfica’s home advantage should come into play here, and they should get a tight win.
Prediction: Benfica 2-1 Sporting
Benfica vs Sporting Betting tips
Tip 1: Result – Benfica
Tip 2: Goals: Over/Under 2.5 Goals: Over 2.5
Tip 3: Benfica will score in the first half – Yes
Tip 4: Pedro Goncalves will score anytime – Yes
Tip 5: At least one goal to be scored in the second half – Yes