What is the best bet for Rio Ave vs Benfica?

Based on AI analysis, the best bet is 'under 3.5' at odds of 1.52.

What are the latest odds for Rio Ave vs Benfica?

The latest odds are: Home Win - 10.25, Draw - 5.5, Away Win - 1.35.

What is the predicted total goals (Under/Over) for Rio Ave vs Benfica?

Our AI predicts the best bet for total goals in this match is 'under 3.5' goals. The available odds for this selection are 1.52.

What is the best 1X2 betting tip for Rio Ave vs Benfica?

Our AI-powered prediction suggests that the best 1X2 bet for this match is '1X'. The available odds for this selection are 3.45.

What is the predicted final score for Rio Ave vs Benfica?

Our AI predicts a final score of 0:0.

What is the predicted halftime score for Rio Ave vs Benfica?

Our AI predicts the halftime score will be 0:0.

What is the expected ball possession for Rio Ave vs Benfica?

Our AI predicts Rio Ave will have 38% possession, while Benfica will have 62% possession.

How many shots are expected in Rio Ave vs Benfica?

The total number of shots is expected to be 20, with Rio Ave taking 4 shots and Benfica taking 16 shots.

How many corners are predicted in Rio Ave vs Benfica?

The match is expected to have a total of 7 corners, with Rio Ave earning 1 corners and Benfica earning 6 corners.

What is the predicted number of yellow cards for Rio Ave vs Benfica?

According to our AI prediction, this match is expected to have a total of 3 yellow cards. Rio Ave is projected to receive 3 yellow cards, while Benfica is expected to receive 0 yellow cards.

What is the squad value of Rio Ave before the match against Benfica?

The current estimated market value of Rio Ave is €42.58m. This reflects the financial strength of their squad before facing Benfica.

What is the squad value of Benfica before the match against Rio Ave?

The current estimated market value of Benfica is €350.50m. This represents their squad’s financial standing before playing against Rio Ave.

How many goals are expected in the first half of Rio Ave vs Benfica?

Our AI predicts that the first half of Rio Ave vs Benfica will have a total of 0 goals, based on the predicted halftime score of 0:0.

How many total goals are expected in Rio Ave vs Benfica?

According to our AI prediction, the match between Rio Ave and Benfica is expected to have a total of 0 goals, based on the predicted full-time score of 0:0.

Rio Ave vs Benfica Prediction

Finished

Portugal

Primeira Liga

Rio Ave

€42.58m

17 Jan20:30

0 : 2

Benfica

€350.50m

Preview

Rio Ave vs Benfica Prediction Primeira Liga

Rio Ave vs Benfica Prediction: Odds, Stats, and Betting Insights

Welcome to our Rio Ave vs Benfica prediction for the Primeira Liga match scheduled on January 17, 2026, at 20:30 GMT. If you’re looking for a smart, easy-to-understand sports betting preview with the latest betting odds, team news, and head to head stats, you’re in the right place. Let’s break down everything you need to know before placing your bets on this intriguing fixture.

Team Form, Tactics, and What to Expect

Benfica, sitting comfortably in third place with 39 points, are the clear favorites heading into this match. They remain unbeaten in the league after 17 games, with 11 wins and 6 draws. Their defense is rock solid, having conceded just 11 goals—the second-best record in the Primeira Liga. On the other side, Rio Ave are in 10th place with 20 points, showing inconsistency with 2 wins, 1 draw, and 2 defeats in their last five matches. Their home form is a bit wobbly, with only 2 wins from 8 games at Estádio do Rio Ave F.C.

Benfica are managed by the legendary José Mourinho, who’s brought his trademark focus and tactical discipline back to Lisbon. Expect Benfica to dominate possession (projected at 62%) and patiently break down Rio Ave’s defense.
Rio Ave are likely to sit deep and look for quick counter-attacks, especially with Brazilian striker Clayton (10 goals this season) leading the line. Their average possession is just 45.8%, so expect them to soak up pressure and hope for a set-piece opportunity.

Benfica’s attacking threat is spearheaded by Greek forward Vangelis Pavlidis, who has already netted 17 times this season. With an average team rating of 7.00 and a squad value of €350.50m (compared to Rio Ave’s €42.58m), the visitors have quality and depth on their side.

Head to Head and Recent Meetings

Looking at the head to head record, Benfica have dominated this fixture. Rio Ave have never beaten Benfica in the Primeira Liga. In their last five meetings, Benfica have won three times, with two draws. The most recent match ended 1-1, showing that Rio Ave can sometimes frustrate the Lisbon giants. Notably, back in September 2025, Rio Ave managed a surprise 1-1 draw away at Benfica, defying the betting odds of 27.0 for a win!

Last H2H: Rio Ave 1-1 Benfica (2025)
Previous H2H: Rio Ave 2-3 Benfica (2025)

Injuries, Suspensions, and Staff News

Both teams have their share of absentees. Rio Ave are missing key defenders O. Richards and E. da Silva Moreira, while midfielder T. Bakoulas is out until March. Benfica have a longer injury list, with several midfielders and forwards unavailable, but crucially, Nicolás Otamendi is back from suspension and ready to marshal the defense.

Benfica’s manager José Mourinho is known for his meticulous preparation—he even made his players sleep at the training ground after a recent cup loss. Expect a focused and well-drilled Benfica side.
Rio Ave have seen recent staff changes, with new manager Sotiris Sylaidopoulos (or Petit, depending on your source) taking charge in July 2025. The club has also undergone a wave of layoffs, which could affect morale.

Rio Ave vs Benfica Prediction, Odds, and Betting Tips

Let’s get to the heart of our Rio Ave vs Benfica prediction. The current betting odds are:

Home win (Rio Ave): 10.25
Draw: 5.5
Away win (Benfica): 1.35

Our AI-driven prediction leans towards a low-scoring affair, with under 3.5 goals as the top betting option (odds 1.52, trust level 1.8/10). The predicted final score is a rather surprising 0:0, with both teams expected to be cautious and Benfica controlling the tempo. First half? Also 0:0, so don’t expect fireworks early on.

Best 1x2 bet: 1X (Rio Ave or Draw) at odds of 3.5 (trust score 1.0)
Under/Over market: Under 3.5 goals at odds of 1.52 (confidence 1.8)

Statistically, Benfica are expected to take 16 shots (5 on target) to Rio Ave’s 4 (1 on target), with corners predicted at 6-1 in favor of the visitors. Rio Ave might pick up 3 yellow cards, while Benfica are expected to keep their cool.

Final Thoughts and Betting Insights

While the betting odds heavily favor Benfica, recent head to head results suggest Rio Ave can be stubborn, especially at home. However, with Mourinho’s men unbeaten and in control, it’s hard to look past an away win. Still, the under 3.5 goals market looks appealing given both teams’ recent defensive focus and the predicted low shot conversion.

If you’re feeling brave, a small stake on 1X (Rio Ave or Draw) could pay off handsomely at 3.5 odds.
For safer sports betting, under 3.5 goals is the smart play, especially with both teams likely to prioritize defense.

That wraps up our Rio Ave vs Benfica prediction. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or just starting out, remember: football is full of surprises, and sometimes the stats only tell half the story. Good luck, and may your bets be as sharp as Mourinho’s tactics!

Rio Ave vs Benfica Prediction: Odds, Stats, and Betting Insights

Team Form, Tactics, and What to Expect

Benfica are managed by the legendary José Mourinho, who’s brought his trademark focus and tactical discipline back to Lisbon. Expect Benfica to dominate possession (projected at 62%) and patiently break down Rio Ave’s defense.
Rio Ave are likely to sit deep and look for quick counter-attacks, especially with Brazilian striker Clayton (10 goals this season) leading the line. Their average possession is just 45.8%, so expect them to soak up pressure and hope for a set-piece opportunity.

Head to Head and Recent Meetings

Last H2H: Rio Ave 1-1 Benfica (2025)
Previous H2H: Rio Ave 2-3 Benfica (2025)

Injuries, Suspensions, and Staff News

Benfica’s manager José Mourinho is known for his meticulous preparation—he even made his players sleep at the training ground after a recent cup loss. Expect a focused and well-drilled Benfica side.
Rio Ave have seen recent staff changes, with new manager Sotiris Sylaidopoulos (or Petit, depending on your source) taking charge in July 2025. The club has also undergone a wave of layoffs, which could affect morale.

Rio Ave vs Benfica Prediction, Odds, and Betting Tips

Let’s get to the heart of our Rio Ave vs Benfica prediction. The current betting odds are:

Home win (Rio Ave): 10.25
Draw: 5.5
Away win (Benfica): 1.35

Best 1x2 bet: 1X (Rio Ave or Draw) at odds of 3.5 (trust score 1.0)
Under/Over market: Under 3.5 goals at odds of 1.52 (confidence 1.8)

Final Thoughts and Betting Insights

If you’re feeling brave, a small stake on 1X (Rio Ave or Draw) could pay off handsomely at 3.5 odds.
For safer sports betting, under 3.5 goals is the smart play, especially with both teams likely to prioritize defense.

AI Predictions

Warning

Benfica has upcoming match in Europe

Best Tip

The best betting football prediction for Rio Ave vs Benfica

U3.5 -192

No more than 3 goals will be scored in the match with odds of -192

1/10

1x2 Tip

1X 245

Rio Ave to win or draw

1/10

Total Goals

Under 3.5 -192

No more than 3 goals will be scored in the match

1/10

Both Teams To Score

No -133

At least one team is not expected to score

4/10

Bet Builder Tip

1X&U5.5 280

Home win/draw and under 5.5 goals

1/10

Both Teams To Score

Half-Time Score

0:0

Correct Score

0:0

Stats Predictions

0.47

1.72

38%

Ball Possession

62%

Total Shots

Shots on Goal

Shots Off Goal

Corners

Average / Match

0.98

Expected Goals

1.66

3.2

Total Goals

2.7

1.3

Goals Scored

1.8

1.9

Goals Against

0.9

48%

Possession

52%

8.2

Total Shots

14.9

3.3

Shots on Goal

5.3

3.1

Shots off Goal

13.2

Fouls

11.7

4.1

Corners

5.9

1.8

Offsides

2.78

Yellow Cards

1.13

375

Total Passes

462

Overview Last 10 Matches

Wins

Over 1.5 Goals

Over 2.5 Goals

Over 3.5 Goals

Both Teams Scored

Unexpected Wins

Unexpected Loses

Head to Head

2 - 4 - 25

Benfica	^23-Sep-25 1:1	Rio Ave
Rio Ave	^16-Mar-25 2:3	Benfica
Benfica	^27-Oct-24 5:0	Rio Ave
Rio Ave	^17-May-24 1:1	Benfica
Benfica	^14-Jan-24 4:1	Rio Ave
Rio Ave	^02-Apr-23 0:1	Benfica
Benfica	^08-Oct-22 4:2	Rio Ave
Benfica	^01-Mar-21 2:0	Rio Ave
Rio Ave	^18-Oct-20 0:3	Benfica
Rio Ave	^17-Jun-20 1:2	Benfica

Recent Matches of Rio Ave

31 Jan		Rio Ave.	-	Arouca.
25 Jan	L	Nacional.	4:0	Rio Ave.
17 Jan	L	Rio Ave.	0:2	Benfica.
04 Jan	W	Rio Ave.	3:1	Casa Pia.
28 Dec	L	Sporting CP.	4:0	Rio Ave.
20 Dec	D	Gil Vicente.	2:2	Rio Ave.
13 Dec	L	Rio Ave.	0:1	Guimaraes.
06 Dec	W	AFS.	1:2	Rio Ave.
30 Nov	D	Rio Ave.	1:1	Santa Clara.
08 Nov	D	Alverca.	1:1	Rio Ave.

Recent Matches of Benfica

28 Jan		Benfica.	-	Real Madrid.
25 Jan	W	Benfica.	4:0	Estrela.
21 Jan	L	Juventus.	2:0	Benfica.
17 Jan	W	Rio Ave.	0:2	Benfica.
14 Jan	L	FC Porto.	1:0	Benfica.
07 Jan	L	Benfica.	1:3	Braga.
03 Jan	W	Benfica.	3:1	Estoril.
28 Dec	D	Braga.	2:2	Benfica.
22 Dec	W	Benfica.	1:0	Famalicao.
17 Dec	W	SC Farense.	0:2	Benfica.

Portugal - Primeira Liga

	Team	Matches	Goals	Points
1	FC Porto	19	40-4	55
2	Sporting CP	19	52-10	48
3	Benfica	19	42-11	45
4	SC Braga	19	37-18	33
5	GIL Vicente	19	24-16	31
6	Moreirense	19	26-26	30
7	Famalicao	19	24-14	29
8	Estoril	19	37-31	26
9	Guimaraes	19	20-27	25
10	Alverca	19	19-33	23
11	Nacional	19	26-28	20
12	Rio Ave	19	22-35	20
13	Estrela	19	23-36	19
14	Santa Clara	19	14-21	17
15	Arouca	19	20-44	17
16	Casa Pia	19	20-38	15
17	Tondela	19	12-33	12
18	AVS	19	14-47	5

Rio Ave vs Benfica Prediction

Rio Ave vs Benfica Prediction: Odds, Stats, and Betting Insights

Team Form, Tactics, and What to Expect

Head to Head and Recent Meetings

Injuries, Suspensions, and Staff News

Rio Ave vs Benfica Prediction, Odds, and Betting Tips

Final Thoughts and Betting Insights

Rio Ave vs Benfica Prediction: Odds, Stats, and Betting Insights

Team Form, Tactics, and What to Expect

Head to Head and Recent Meetings

Injuries, Suspensions, and Staff News

Rio Ave vs Benfica Prediction, Odds, and Betting Tips

Final Thoughts and Betting Insights

Warning

Best Tip

1x2 Tip

Total Goals

Both Teams To Score

Bet Builder Tip

Half-Time Score

Correct Score

Stats Predictions

Average / Match

Overview Last 10 Matches

Head to Head

Latest Matches

Recent Matches of Rio Ave

Recent Matches of Benfica

Portugal - Primeira Liga

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