Monday's Primeira Liga predictions including Benfica vs. Estoril

Benfica vs. Estoril (Monday, 6.45pm)

Separated by 10 places in the Primeira Liga table before gameweek 15, second-placed Benfica are clear favourites to outdo Estoril Praia at Estadio da Luz on Monday.

Bruno Lage's men sit atop the form table along with Porto (13 points from 15), highlighting their strong performances and results ahead of the forthcoming Lisbon derby, and could supplant table-topping Sporting Lisbon after the ongoing round.

We say: Benfica 3-1 Estoril Praia

Benfica have beaten Estoril in the previous eight corresponding Liga fixtures at Estadio da Luz, and that pattern should continue in gameweek 15.

Although the Canaries have netted in four of their previous five visits, the Reds' superior technical quality should see the hosts continue this term's unblemished run at the Stadium of Light.

Estrela Amadora vs. Rio Ave (Monday, 8.45pm)

Visitors Rio Ave have the opportunity to significantly distance themselves from the relegation zone on Monday, when they travel to Estadio Jose Gomes to face struggling Estrela Amadora in the Primeira Liga.

The hosts are fourth last in 15th place with 12 points from 14 games and lost 2-0 against Porto last Monday, while Rio Ave drew 2-2 with Vitoria de Guimaraes on December 16 and are 11th with 16 points after 16 matchweeks.

We say: Estrela Amadora 1-2 Rio Ave

Though Rio Ave have been poor defensively this season, it is difficult to see Estrela scoring more than once given their struggles in the final third.

Additionally, the visitors have been somewhat resurgent of late away from home, and it would not be surprising if they claimed all three points on Monday.

Written by

Matt Law