FC Porto Beat Rio Ave Away to Stay Top of the Portuguese Primeira Liga

The Dragons defeated Rio Ave in Vila do Conde to make it two wins from two in Portugal’s top flight.

FC Porto, the reigning Portuguese champions, secured a hard-fought 2-0 away victory over Rio Ave this Saturday in Matchday 2 of the 2026-27 Primeira Liga.

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With the result, the Dragons remain at the top of the table with a perfect six points from six to start the season.

Argentine defender Nehuén Pérez (11') and Spanish forward Borja Sainz (82'), who came on as a substitute, scored the goals for the Blue and Whites.

Nehuén Pérez Puts Porto Ahead as Diogo Costa Preserves the Lead

Francesco Farioli made three changes to the starting lineup from the team that opened the season in Matchday 1. Nehuén Pérez, Pablo Rosario and Deniz Gül replaced Martim Fernandes, Alan Varela and André Silva.

The decision to start Pérez paid off quickly. In the 11th minute, the Argentine defender rose highest to meet Gabri Veiga’s corner and headed home to give Porto a 1-0 lead.

Porto had chances to extend its advantage. Deniz Gül came close with a shot that hit the post, while a goal from Jakub Kiwior was ruled out for offside.

At the other end, Diogo Costa came up big late in the first half, saving a header from Tamble Monteiro to preserve Porto’s lead.

Rio Ave tried to respond after the break, but Porto controlled much of the match and kept the hosts from creating clear-cut chances.

Borja Sainz Seals the Win

Farioli made changes in the second half and quickly got a response from his substitutes. Borja Sainz came on in the 66th minute and proved decisive.

The Spanish forward had an early chance after combining with his teammates, but the Rio Ave goalkeeper denied him. However, in the 85th minute, Sainz finally got his reward.

A move started by Alberto Costa ended with a great intervention from Inbeom Hwang, who left the ball perfectly positioned for Sainz to finish first time and make it 2-0. The forward celebrated by pointing to the sky and dedicating the goal to his mother.

With the victory, Porto have six points from two matches, with five goals scored and none conceded.

The reigning Portuguese champions have now won both of their away games and confirmed a strong start under Francesco Farioli, while Rio Ave will have to wait for another opportunity to claim its first win of the season.