SC Braga v Benfica is set to take place on 17 May 2025 at the Estadio Municipal de Braga in the closing round of the Liga Portugal season. Kick-off is scheduled for 19:00 CEST in Italy, Germany, France and Spain, and 18:00 BST in the UK. This fixture not only concludes Braga’s campaign but also has a direct bearing on the title race, with Benfica and Sporting CP level on points at the summit.
Braga arrive hoping to play spoiler, while Benfica need at least a point to keep their destiny in their own hands. With Sporting CP and Benfica both on 79 points, this game could effectively decide the championship. Fans worldwide will be tuned in for what promises to be a dramatic finale in Portugal.
How are both teams coming into this?
Braga have enjoyed a strong season underlining their status as regular top-four finishers. They currently sit in 4th place with 65 points from 33 matches, compiling 19 wins, eight draws and six losses. However, their closing run has been patchy, as they’ve failed to win in their last three league outings, most recently losing 2-1 at Casa Pia despite dominating possession and shots.
Benfica have been nearly flawless en route to the title race, matching Sporting’s tally of 79 points. Their consistency has been the hallmark of the campaign, blending a solid defense with cutting-edge attack. Heading into this final fixture, Benfica will be looking to avoid any slip-up that could gift Sporting CP the crown.
Our forecast
Expect a tense, tactical battle at the Estadio Municipal de Braga. Braga will be motivated to showcase their home strength and spoil Benfica’s title party, but their recent struggles suggest they may lack the finishing touch. Benfica, on the other hand, have demonstrated resilience under pressure all season and know exactly what is at stake.
We predict Benfica to edge the contest by a narrow margin. A 2-1 victory for the visitors seems the most likely outcome, as they combine the experience needed in high-pressure games with a squad capable of breaking down stubborn defenses. However, a draw cannot be ruled out if Braga rediscover their early-season form.
