Porto vs Red Star: Prediction, Team News, and Lineups Revealed

Porto is set to clash with Red Star Belgrade in an exciting Europa League matchup this Thursday at Estadio do Dragao. The Portuguese side aims to extend their impressive start to the 2025-26 season, having won all eight competitive matches so far. Their opening Europa League game ended in victory against Salzburg. In contrast, Red Star Belgrade enters this contest after a 1-1 draw with Celtic on matchday one.

Match Preview: Porto vs Red Star Belgrade

Under the leadership of Francesco Farioli, Porto has looked revitalized since his appointment in July. Last season fell short of expectations, and an early exit from the Club World Cup only added to their woes. However, Porto currently leads the Primeira Liga with seven wins from seven games. Notably, they recently dominated Arouca with a 4-0 scoreline, despite losing a player to a red card early in the second half.

This matchup marks a first-time encounter between Porto and Red Star Belgrade. Porto is aiming to build on their recent success, including a stoppage-time goal from William Gomes that secured points against Salzburg. Despite home ground advantage, Porto has been winless in their last two Europa League matches at home, drawing once against Roma before losing in the return leg. Nevertheless, historically, they have secured 12 wins in 23 Europa League matches at the Dragao.

Statistics: Porto vs Red Star Belgrade

• Porto’s Europa League Record: 12 wins, 5 draws, 6 losses in 23 matches at home
• Red Star Belgrade’s Road Performance: 12 losses in their last 16 away games in UEFA competitions
• Porto’s Goal Scoring: 20 goals in 8 matches this season
• Recent Form for Red Star: Unbeaten in last 6 games, winning 4

For Red Star Belgrade, the team has struggled away from home, managing only two wins in their last 16 European away matches. After a 1-1 draw against Celtic in their opener, they must secure a win to stay competitive in the group stage. This will be Red Star’s ninth encounter with Portuguese teams, where they have managed only two wins to date, both suffered on foreign soil.

Team News: Key Players to Watch

Porto’s coach, Farioli, will be monitoring the fitness of forward Samu Omorodion, who limped off against Arouca. Luuk de Jong remains unavailable, leaving Deniz Gul as a probable starter if Omorodion cannot play. Zaidu Sanusi, who recently scored, is also vying for a starting position. Interestingly, Martim Fernandes is eligible to participate despite his recent red card, as the suspension does not apply in European competition.

Red Star will see Bruno Duarte, recently sent off, available for selection. However, midfielder Rade Krunic continues to recover from an abductor injury. Players like Stefan Lekovic and Mirko Ivanic, who contributed significantly in the recent league match, are likely to retain their spots in the lineup. Veteran Marko Arnautovic is also pushing for a starting role after a solid performance off the bench.

Possible Lineups

Considering their strong home advantage and formidable offensive capabilities, Porto is favored to win this match. Predictions lean towards a 2-0 victory for the home side, capitalizing on Red Star’s vulnerabilities on the road.