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Huge derby tonight in Lisbon, as Sporting will take on rivals FC Porto in a match that is already key to the title fight.
After losing a lot of players over the summer Sporting clearly lost some strength and they obviously have issues finishing games off, recording 3 draws and 2 wins in the first 5 rounds in Portugal and also being held to a 1-1 draw by Maribor in the Champions League. However, Sporting did step it up a notch last round in the league, winning 4-0 at Gil Vicente, though Gil Vicente is the worst team in Portugal right now.
Porto has also lost some players this season but they look a little bit more sharp than Sporting – they have just 2 points over them in the league (3 wins, 2 draws) but put on a clinic display in Champions League, winning 6-1 against BATE in a match in which they showcased their potential. The last game for Porto was a disappointing 0-0 home draw with Boavista, though Porto clearly deserved to win that encounter.
Team news: Both teams have a couple of issues but nothing game-changing in my opinion. We can include Lopes, Rabia (Sporting) and Maicon, Helton, Torres (Porto).
Very tight match here, Porto looks a little better than Sporting this season but playing on the road will surely nullify any slight advantage in quality and form. Both sides are undefeated so far in all competitions and both are prone to draws (especially Sporting), so there`s no doubt in my mind that a draw is the most likely result in this derby. Considering it has the highest odds in the 1×2 market, the bet is a no brainer as far as I`m concerned. Great odds, great value – my tip is the draw. Prediction: Sporting – FC Porto 1-1.
Pick: Draw
Odds: 3.30 @ Bet365
Stake: 5
Possible profit: 11.5
Event date: 26 September
