If we dive deep into the details of this exciting clash between CD Nacional and Benfica, we can see certain patterns and strengths that might help us predict the outcome here.
Between the posts, Benfica's Anatoliy Trubin is giving an adequate show with a rating of 6.80 score, though CD Nacional's Lucas França is proving slightly superior with a commendable 7.27 rating and 9 saves under his belt. It's clear which goalie is working harder, but let's not forget Trubin might have had fewer saves thanks to a stronger defense.
Moving on to the top players, Benfica does hold more clout. Angel Di Maria, Nicolas Otamendi, Florentino Luis top the charts with their impressive ratings and goals. Sure, Otamendi and Luis' passing accuracy are commendable, but without high percentage shots on goal, their accuracy values are just dazzle, right? On the other hand, CD Nacional has Djibril Soumaré and Gustavo Garcia as their top-rated players, but without a goal this season yet, one can't help but question their offensive capabilities.
Now, examining their regular season records provides a stark contrast between both teams' performances. Benfica are showing a well-rounded set of results with 5 wins and a mere single loss displaying their strong presence in the league. Sadly, CD Nacional's record is rather dismal with only 1 win and 4 losses. Not a pretty sight if you ask me.
If we look into their recent results, we find Benfica has trounced their opposition with some rather 'cricket-score' type margins. CD Nacional's results have been a mixed bag, featuring low-scoring battles and, unfortunately, a rather disappointing whitewash by Sporting Braga. Sour taste, eh?
Taking everything into account, the prediction seems to lean more than a bit towards Benfica. The overall combination of their strong players stats, impressive season record, and recent performance gives them an undeniable edge, and I predict a considerable winning margin too. Look away CD Nacional fans; this might hurt.
Albert's Prediction: Benfica by 3