A controversial goal by João Moutinho was the difference between Porto and Málaga on Tuesday night.
Porto vs. Malaga: Lineups
James Rodriguez is not fit to start for Porto and instead takes a place on the bench.
The Colombian winger was subject to a late fitness test and has not made the cut, although is likely to be subbed on at some point during the game. Silvetre Varela and Marat Izmailov both start instead, either side of Jackson Martinez in attack. Lucho Gonzalez, Fernando and Joao Moutinho comprise the midfield for the hosts.
Read Article >Malaga have question to answer vs. Porto
Denis DoyleUh oh.
Porto and a packed Estadio de Dragao awaits them in the first leg of their Champions League round of 16 tie, where Antunes will face some combination of Silvestre Varela, Marat Izmaylov, Christian Atsu and Danilo. That’s not enviable for anyone, let alone someone like like Antunes.
Read Article >Porto expecting to beat Málaga at home
Dean MouhtaropoulosFC Porto failed to win their Champions League group while Málaga bested AC Milan and Zenit St. Petersburg to win theirs, but the Portuguese side enters Tuesday’s first leg as the favorite to advance. They’re unbeaten in well over a year in Portugal, while financial troubles have required the sale of yet another star Málaga player in January.
The Dragons have suffered a number of injuries to key personnel over the course of the winter, but they’re getting healthy at the right time. Their only serious issue comes at a position of considerable depth. Málaga are also missing just one key player, but it’s in a spot -- left back -- where their replacement options are unproven.
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