Braga may be the more experienced side out of this pair but they have no bragging rights after the first four rounds. One more defeat and they could exit the Europa League after the first phase.
While we are used to seeing Braga every year in a UEFA competition, their performance this season has been below their standards. And they have generally not faced tougher sides than usual. Elfsborg, Bodo/Glimt and Olympiacos are a level below Braga and yet they only won a point from those three games.
The Arsenalistas are not out of the question yet but they need to win at least two of their remaining four matches and try not to lose the other two.
Beating Hoffenheim is definitely not an easy task, however, even with the mediocre form they've had lately. The Kraichgauers are actually fighting for their place in the Bundesliga this season and barely sit four points above the relegation zone.
Their main problem has been the attack, which often disappears in a time of need. Sometimes, it feels like the attacking group of the squad doesn't travel with Hoffe as the team barely scored two goals in its last five away games. Four of those were draws, the last two being 0-0.
How the bookies view it: The Germans will struggle in Portugal
Bookmakers don't believe in Hoffenheim's chances and give Braga a considerable advantage. Betano priced them at 21/20, while the visitors sit at 12/5. Alternatively, you can pick the draw at 27/10.
Recent head to head: Back at it again seven years later
The teams shared this stage once already in 2017, when Braga and Hoffenheim played in Group C of the Europa League. Back then, the Arsenalistas won the group and Hoffe finished last. Braga won six of its 10 points exactly from Hoffenheim, beating them 3-1 at home and 1-2 away.
Players to watch: Bruno can save Braga
The Kraichgauers have a long list of injuries ahead of this fixture, which could be crucial for Braga's chances to win. The visitors will be without Niehues, Tschernuth, Keller, Thomalla, Schimmer, and Busch.
All this commotion could be just what Bruno needs to shine again for Braga. The winger has been extremely effective for his team, providing seven goals and seven assists this season.
Probable line-ups
Braga: Matheus, Ferreira, Oliveira, Niakate, Fernandes, Carvalho, Moutinho, Martinez, Horta, El Ouazzani, Bruma
Hoffenheim: Baumann, Kaderabek, Chaves, Nsoki, Prass, Stach, Kramaric, Bischof, Hlozek, Tabakovic, Bulter
Anything else catch the eye?
This fixture is shaping out to be an exciting goal-packed thriller, with two teams in need of the three points to secure a spot in the 1/16 finals.
Braga have more experience but lack consistency. Hoffenheim have the firepower but often fail to convert their many chances. Braga's defence is far from impressive, so we expect another entertaining encounter, like the 2-2 vs Lyon from the previous round.
Overall, betting on goals seems to be the safest option here. It is hard to predict where the three points will end up going.
This UEFA Europa League match between Braga and Hoffenheim will be played on Nov 28, 2024 and kick off at 20:00. Check below for our tipsters best Braga vs Hoffenheim prediction. You may also visit our dedicated betting previews section for the most up to date previews.
