FC Arouca vs CS Marítimo

Arouca welcome Marítimo to the Estádio Municipal on August 29 in a fixture that already carries early-season significance. Arouca have made the perfect start to the new Primeira Liga campaign, sitting top of the table, while Marítimo are just three points back after their long-awaited return to the top flight. For the Madeira side, every point matters as they try to prove they belong among Portugal's elite again after three years away. Arouca's form has been eye-catching, going unbeaten through their opening matches and putting four past Moreirense along the way. Alfonso Trezza has carried the scoring load up front, while Näis Djouahra has been the side's most creative outlet and Jose Fontán has anchored the defence. Marítimo, promoted as Segunda Liga champions, have shown they can compete, beating Casa Pia before narrowly falling 2-1 away at Famalicão. Historically the two sides are evenly matched, with 16 meetings since 2008 split six wins apiece and four draws. Our prediction: 2-1