At the Estádio Municipal de Braga, SC Braga delivered a scintillating performance, dismantling Alverca 5-0 in a dominant Primeira Liga fixture. Vítor Carvalho opened the floodgates with a goal in the 17th minute, setting the tone for a relentless first half. Rodrigo Zalazar doubled the advantage with a well-timed effort in the 23rd minute, courtesy of an assist from Ricardo Horta, who was instrumental throughout.
Braga's First-Half Onslaught
The intensity from Braga was palpable as P. Victor netted the third just seven minutes later, with Zalazar turning provider. As Alverca struggled to find a foothold, Ricardo Horta added a fourth from the penalty spot right before the break, sealing a comprehensive half for the hosts. Alverca's woes were compounded by a yellow card for I. James, reflecting their frustration.
Second Half Control and Closing Act
Despite multiple substitutions by Alverca at the start of the second half, the visitors failed to alter the course of the game. Braga's F. Navarro rounded off the scoring in the 79th minute, converting a pass from P. Victor. The hosts maintained their dominance in possession, finishing with 68%, while Alverca could only muster minimal threat with zero shots on target.
Statistical Superiority
Braga's superiority was evident in every statistic, outshooting Alverca 14 to 3 and completing 740 passes with a 93% accuracy rate. Zalazar's involvement was prominent, contributing not only a goal but also showing off his playmaking skills with four key passes. João Moutinho's orchestrating role was crucial, completing 115 passes with precision.
Looking Ahead
This victory continues Braga's strong form, pushing them firmly into contention for European places. Their recent performances include a silver-rated draw against Benfica and a gold-rated win over Nottingham in the Europa League. Alverca, struggling for consistency, will need to regroup quickly to avoid being drawn into a relegation battle.
