Benfica travels to Vila do Conde on Sunday looking to make it four from four in the Liga NOS. Despite Rio Ave's inability to win any of their opening three fixtures, this promises to be a cagey match.
With the departures of Carlos Carvalhal, along with Taremi and Nuno Santos, it's fair to say that everyone expected the Vilacondenses to go through an adjustment period this season. Truth be told, Mario Silva's side have only managed two goals in three matches, but if there's a positive, they also haven't conceded very much either.
Of their last five meetings at the Estádio dos Arcos, they've all been very closely contested.
Having won four of their last five visits, all four came by a one goal margin. Ironically, the last time Benfica won by two or more goals away to Rio Ave was during the 2012/13 season, with Jorge Jesus in charge.
I'd expect a tight affair here again, with Benfica looking to impose themselves, but Rio Ave will also have their chances. The hosts have the ability to play direct with pace on their wings, something Jorge Jesus will surely pay close attention to in their match preparations.
Below is our match preview and prediction. Be sure to let us know what your prediction is.
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