Mon Dec 16 22:48:42 UTC 2024: ## Porto Aim to Reclaim Top Form Against Estrela Amadora

**Porto, Portugal –** FC Porto will look to bounce back from a recent draw when they host Estrela Amadora on Monday in a Primeira Liga clash. Currently sitting third, two points behind league leaders Sporting Lisbon, Porto are under pressure to maintain their title challenge. Their recent form shows a mixed bag: a 1-1 draw against Famalicão, followed by a 2-0 Europa League win over FC Midtjylland. However, a 4-1 defeat to Benfica earlier highlights the inconsistency they need to overcome.

Estrela Amadora, on the other hand, are struggling near the bottom of the table in 13th place. While they recently defeated Arouca 2-1, their away record is the worst in the league, with only one point from six matches. Their defensive vulnerabilities are also a major concern, having conceded 22 goals this season, including seven against Benfica in the Taca de Portugal.

Despite Estrela’s recent win and Porto’s recent European victory, the home side are overwhelming favorites. Porto boasts a remarkable seven-game winning streak at home, scoring 19 goals and conceding just two. Star striker Samu Aghehowa, with 10 league goals, will lead the line, although Ivan Marcano remains injured and Marko Grujic is doubtful.

Estrela will be without Till Cissokho and Andre Luiz due to injury, but Kikas, with four goals this season, will spearhead their attack. The absence of recently retired Nani will be felt, however.

The predicted starting lineups are:

**Porto:** Costa; Fernandes, Perez, Otavio, Moura; Gonzalez, Eustaquio; Pepe, Vieira, Galeno; Aghehowa

**Estrela Amadora:** Brigido; Ferro, Lopes, Lima; Veiga, Moreira, Cordeiro, Varela; Ruiz, Kikas, Cabral

The expectation is a comfortable victory for Porto, capitalizing on their home advantage and Estrela’s struggles on the road.

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