SC Braga prepares to host KAA Gent in UEFA Conference League

SC Braga is set to host Belgian side KAA Gent at the Estádio Municipal de Braga for the second matchday of the UEFA Conference League league phase. Braga enters the fixture under significant pressure following a 3-0 defeat against FC Copenhagen and a recent 2-1 domestic loss to Gil Vicente. These results led to the departure of manager Carlos Vicens, with Franclim Carvalho stepping in to lead the team.

KAA Gent arrives in Portugal in a stronger position, having won their opening match 1-0 against Aarhus. Despite their successful European start and leading the Belgian Jupiler Pro League, Gent recently suffered a surprising elimination from the Belgian Cup following a penalty shootout loss to amateur side Rochefort.

Gent manager Rik de Mil acknowledged Braga as the favorites due to their home advantage and squad quality, but expressed ambition to secure points in Portugal. Braga will look to leverage their strong home record, having won 13 of their last 15 matches at the Estádio Municipal de Braga, to end a three-match losing streak across all competitions.