Chaves vs Rio Ave Predictions

Both Chaves and Rio Ave are in the midst of winless runs in the Primeira Liga ahead of Friday night’s clash, and there have been a lot of draws between these two clubs which means both teams could see that winless run continue. The hosts drew 0-0 with Santa Clara last time out, while Rio Ave narrowly lost at home to Braga, which means eight points and eight places separate the clubs in the table.

Chaves might well count themselves unlucky or even be disappointed not to have claimed all three points at home to Santa Clara, as the hosts had thirteen shots to their guests seven and always looked the more dangerous going forward. However, the game ended goalless and Chaves remain in the relegation zone with twenty-four games played. Rio Ave took the lead early in the second half against Braga through Carlos, but the sending-off of Jambor shortly after allowed the visitors right back into the match. Substitute Paulinho equalised for the hosts and in stoppage time Wilson Eduardo scored a dramatic winning goal to end Braga poor run of form.

The head to head record between these two clubs, their recent encounters, and their performances and results heading into Friday’s game all point towards the possibility of a score draw. Five of the last six meetings between these two clubs have seen both teams score, and four of the pairs games during that period have ended in draws. Chaves have scored in four of their last six matches, but have only kept one clean sheet in their last four attempts, while Both teams have scored in three of Rio Ave’s last five matches. Rio Ave lead the head to head record, but there have been more draws (11) than wins for either side in this fixture and with both teams struggling to buy a victory over the last few weeks we’re expecting another stalemate on Friday.

Ghazaryan continues to top score for Chaves with three goals, but hasn’t scored in any of his last ten appearances for the hosts. Moreira and Galeno joint top score for the visitors with five league goals each so far this season. We’re confident that both teams will score on Friday, and have backed the game to end in a 1-1 draw. Draws are common between these two sides and both have been struggle for wins in recent weeks, while Chaves’ last two home games both ended in stalemates.