In 2025/26, only Arsenal boast a better defence than FC Porto | OneFootball

It is often said that great teams are built on a solid defense. At FC Porto, this maxim seems to be rigorously applied by Francesco Farioli, who, in just a few months at the Dragão, has already constructed a remarkable defensive wall.

After 17 matches, the blue and white team has conceded only seven goals—a standout record at the national level and also among the top European clubs competing in the 2025/26 continental tournaments. Only Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal, a serious contender for the Premier League, has conceded fewer (6).

As the Europa League resumes, FC Porto hosts Nice on Thursday at the Estádio do Dragão. The French club is going through a rough patch, with four consecutive defeats, but the Dragons must remain vigilant: this season, they have already conceded more goals in European competitions (four in four games) than in the combined total of the League and the Portuguese Cup (three in 13). Terem Moffi and Ali Cho will be the offensive threats to watch, while FC Porto tries to prevent AC Milan from closing the gap in goals conceded (see table).

Regarding the match against Sintrense, in the 4th round of the main cup competition, Farioli is expected to make changes at the back, starting with the goal: Cláudio Ramos, usually the cup goalkeeper, will give way to captain Diogo Costa, who has kept nine clean sheets in 15 matches this season. Alberto Costa is also expected to return to the right flank of the defense, and Jakub Kiwior to be reinstated in the center after being rested against Sintrense. It remains to be seen whether Bednarek, still recovering from a left knee injury (see next page), will return as a partner in the center or if Pablo Rosario or Prpic will take the starting spot, depending on the physical condition of the number 5.

It is clear that FC Porto’s defense has maintained a pattern of solidity despite changes imposed by injuries or load management. Bednarek and Kiwior have established themselves as the starting central duo after Nehuén Pérez’s serious injury in September, but the alternatives have also stepped up: Prpic has impressed with his defensive security and quality in distribution, while Rosario has filled in when needed. And, as A BOLA timely reported, it is very likely that another center-back will arrive in January.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇵🇹 here.