Champions League: Braga v Manchester United match preview

A look ahead to this week’s Champions League fixture at Estadio AXA

The Manchester United team (Getty Images)

Man Utd have won all of their games so far in this year’s Champions League and they will doubtless be hoping to keep that run going in Braga.

Sir Alex Ferguson will be looking for an improved defensive performance from his side, particularly after they conceded two early goals in the reverse fixture two weeks ago.

Darren Fletcher and Paul Scholes have not made the trip to Portugal, while Phil Jones, Shinji Kagawa and Nemanja Vidic are all out injured.
Given that United only need one point from their remaining three games in order to qualify, it would not be a surprise if several key players were rested although Ferguson will undoubtedly want to ensure his side qualify first from the group, particularly after last year’s humiliating group stage exit.

Braga have no injury worries ahead of the game and are expected to be at full strength for the clash at their unique home stadium, which is carved into the face of a quarry.

KICK-OFF: Today, 7.45pm

PAST MEETINGS:

Man Utd 3 (Hernandez 2, Evans) Braga 2 (Alan 2), Champions League, group stage, October 2012

STATS…

Braga have won their last four European matches against English opponents on home soil without conceding a goal.

Manchester United have lost just one of their last 16 Champions League Group Stage away games (W11 D4 L1).

There has been a goal scored inside the first 15 minutes in each of the last six Champions League games involving Man Utd.

Manchester United have scored more headed goals than any other team in the Champions League (3).

Man Utd have scored in their last 19 European matches in a row.

ODDS…

Braga to win: 3.7

Man Utd to win: 2.24

Draw: 3.5

TV: Live on Sky Sports 4 at 7.45pm