Preview: Estoril Praia vs. SC Farense - prediction, team news, lineups

The away side are winless in three straight Primeira Liga matches and will bid to snap their run of poor form against the hosts, who are on an upward trajectory.

Match preview

Rejuvenated Estoril have now picked up a point or more in four of their last five league matches, as they settled for a 1-1 draw against Famalicao at Estadio Municipal 22 de Junho last time out.

The Canaries are just two points above Rio Ave, who occupy the relegation playoff spot, but this is a massive improvement as they were bottom of the table before the last international break, and looked destined for relegation.

The appointment of Vasco Seabra has breathed new life into Estoril, as they have looked like a different side since he took the job, picking up 10 of their 14-point total in that period, with wins against Porto, Casa Pia and Chaves.

Seabra's side have looked untouchable in recent home matches, recording 4-0 victories over Casa Pia and Chaves in their last two games on home turf, and it will be interesting to see if the hosts can claim another convincing home victory during this good run of form.

Bragging rights are also at stake, as this will be the first Primeira Liga meeting between the two sides.

Following a two-year absence from the top flight, Farense have returned to the Primeira Liga and look well on their path to becoming a mainstay in the league.

The Lions of Faro settled for a goalless draw against Estrela Amadora last time out in a game with many attempts but little on target.

Despite the positive outlook of their season so far, Jose Mota's side are winless in three straight Primeira Liga matches and will bid to snap their run of poor form when they travel to Estoril.

Farense will have their confidence boosted by the fact that they are now getting positive results on the road, as they are unbeaten in their last three away games, a run that follows consecutive defeats in their first three trips of the season.

Estoril Praia Primeira Liga form:

L

W

W

L

W

D

Estoril Praia form (all competitions):

W

W

L

W

W

D

SC Farense Primeira Liga form:

W

W

W

L

D

D

SC Farense form (all competitions):

L

W

W

L

D

D

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Team News

Erick Cabaco is the only possible absentee for the hosts, as he will have to pass a late fitness test to be available for selection.

Cassiano, who has scored four goals in the league this season, is expected to lead the line once again this weekend.

Falcao should retain his spot in the engine room for the visitors after positive performances in the last two matches, while Vitor Goncalves and Mattheus Oliveira should continue as the two midfielders behind the striker.

Goncalo Silva and Zach Muscat are expected to be in the heart of defence once again, with Ricardo Velho between the sticks.

Estoril Praia possible starting lineup:

Carne; Parra, Vital, Alvaro; Gomes, Soares, Fernandes, Araujo; Guitane, Marques; Cassiano

SC Farense possible starting lineup:

Velho; Pastor, Silva, Muscat, Talocha; Falcao; Matias, Goncalves, Mattheus, Belloumi; Duarte

We say: Estoril Praia 1-1 SC Farense

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