Maritimo – Arouca

Maritimo host Arouca in what promises to be a decisive clash in the top half of the table, with the home side sitting tenth on seven points after two wins, a draw and two defeats, and a modest –2 goal difference (6‑8). Arouca arrive in Madeira third‑placed with ten points, having secured three victories, one stalemate and two losses while boasting a +3 goal margin (8‑5). The gap in points and the superior scoring record give the visitors a slight edge, yet Maritimo’s recent home form could make the encounter tighter than the standings suggest. A win for either side would significantly reshape the race for European spots, while a draw would keep Arouca within striking distance of the top five and give Maritimo a much‑needed lift.