FC Porto take on Monaco at the Estadio do Dragao next week, with the home side looking for the three points that would confirm their place in the knockout phase of this seasons Champions League. With last season’s semi-finalists Monaco having failed to win a single game in Group G so far, Leonardo Jardim’s men have nothing but pride to play for in Portugal.
Champions League – Estádio do Dragão, Porto – Wednesday 6th December – 19:45 UK Time
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Draw Best Odd of: 17/4 at Ladbrokes |
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FC Porto
AS MonacoLevel on points with German side RB Leipzig in the Group G standings, Porto host Monaco in the Champions League, knowing that a win of any kind is probably enough to take them through to the last 16 of the competition. Despite their poor performances in Europe this season, Monaco showed in their last campaign that they are more than a match for anyone on their day, making their showdown with Porto an intriguing one. For those still unsure of who to back, be sure to check out our top betting tip below. However, let’s first take a closer look at the two teams, starting with the home side.
FC Porto Team News & Form
Porto boss Sérgio Conceição has led his team to two wins and one draw from their opening five matches, which includes last week’s battling draw with group leaders Besiktas in Turkey. Porto are the leading scorers in Group G with ten goals to their name, with striker Vincent Aboubakar having three goals and an assist to his name. The Cameroon international is likely to be the biggest threat for the home side, along with the likes of Yacine Brahimi and Hernani. Veteran goalkeeper Iker Casillas should line up between the sticks once more for Porto, with the former Real Madrid man offering great experience for the home side.
AS Monaco Team News & Form
Having lost a large number of players over the summer, Monaco have struggled to find their best form in the Champions League so far this season, with the Ligue 1 champions now having nothing to play for in their final group fixture. Former Atletico Madrid and Manchester United man Radamel Falcao is still perhaps their biggest threat however, while the creativity of Thomas Lemar and Joao Moutinho is key for the visitors. Moutinho could well line up against his former club in Portugal next week. Monaco have conceded 11 goals so far in the competition, scoring just four.
Head to Head
The two teams have met just twice in the past, with Porto having won on both occasions, including their 3-0 win in Monaco just a matter of months ago. Their other win came in their most historic match of all time, when Jose Mourinho inspired them to a 3-0 success in the Champions League final back in 2004.
Betting Odds and Predictions
Given their status as the home team and their superior record over Monaco, it comes as little surprise that it is Porto who are the firm favourites for victory with the majority of bookmakers. Those looking to bet on a home win can take advantage of odds of 2/5 from Skybet, whilst an away win for Monaco is available at a price of 15/2 with Ladbrokes.
Top Betting Tip
However, our top betting tip for the match is to bet on both teams to score in Portugal, which is available at odds of 10/11 with Ladbrokes.