Primeira Liga | Gameweek 19

Jan 24, 2025 at 8.15pm UK

Estadio Municipal de Arouca

Arouca vs Moreirense

Match preview

After a 1-1 draw with Gil Vicente and a 3-1 win over Boavista, Arouca's impressive run was tested by a two-goal first-half deficit against Guimaraes.

However, a determined second half saw Tiago Esgaio halve the deficit in the 56th minute before Chico Lamba's equaliser (72') secured a share of the spoils.

Now on a three-game unbeaten run, Vasco Seabra appear to have found their stride after a turbulent run in which they lost six of their previous eight matches in all competitions, including five defeats, one draw and one win in seven league games.

This recent revival has lifted Arouquenses out of the relegation zone and they now sit 15th in the Primeira Liga standings, one point above 16th-placed SC Farense, who occupy the relegation play-off spot.

Determined to keep their heads above water, Arouca will be looking to build on their momentum, although they will have to overcome a daunting record, having lost their last three meetings with the visitors.

In contrast to their hosts' resurgence, Moreirense have struggled in recent weeks, going six games without a win in all competitions, drawing three and losing three.

The Conegos' latest setback was a frustrating goalless draw against relegation-threatened Farense at Parque Moreira, a result that leaves them eighth in the standings on 23 points, nine adrift of the Conference League qualification spot.

Moreirense's recent slump has largely been down to their struggles in the final third, with four of their last six games failing to find the back of the net.

Despite their current woes, Cesar Peixoto's men can take heart from their strong goalscoring record at the Municipal, where they have found the net on each of their last five visits, recording three wins, one draw and one defeat.

Recent Performance

Arouca Primeira Liga form:LWLDWD

Moreirense Primeira Liga form:WLLDDD

Moreirense form (all competitions):LLDDLD

Team News

With Vladislav Morozov joining Pacos Ferreira earlier this month, Guven Yalcin faces less competition for the centre-forward role and is expected to lead the line for Arouca once again.

On the injury front, Arouquenses will be without Kouassi Eboue, who has yet to feature this season after suffering a serious muscle injury in May, while Nino Galovic remains sidelined with a knee problem sustained in August.

Moreirense will be without left-back Godfried Frimpong, who is suspended after picking up too many yellow cards, with right-back Fabiano a possible replacement.

Meanwhile, Hernani Infande remains a doubt as he continues to recover from the anterior cruciate ligament injury that has sidelined him since March last year.

Possible starting lineup

Arouca possible starting lineup:

Mantl; Esgaio, Lamba, Fontan, Weverson; Simao, Santos; Yalcin, Jason, Trezza; Garcia

Moreirense possible starting lineup:

Kewin; Pinto, Marcelo, Maracas, Fabiano; Ismael, Ofori; Gabrielzinho, Alan, Madson; Asue