Guarda vs Chaves - Taça de Portugal

The Taça de Portugal returns to the home ground on September 20, 2026, where Guarda and Chaves will lock horns in a contest that could shape their respective campaigns. Rush will take over under centre for the Falcons as they prepare to face the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday, with the team’s quarterback situation taking an unexpected turn heading into the season opener.

There is little to choose between Guarda and Chaves on paper, and the Taça de Portugal encounter should reflect that balance. Guarda will be keen to seize the initiative and build some momentum on home soil. Chaves's away form is hard to read, but they will arrive with the belief that they can trouble their hosts. That was the 3-2 loss to Manchester United in January of this year, which ended a 121-match run without letting in three goals.

How the two sides approach the contest strategically will be key. Guarda will want to control proceedings in front of their own supporters, while Chaves will back themselves to cause problems on the break. Schalke were third bottom for possession in winning the second tier, let alone facing Bayern.

The fixture is likely to be shaped by its key performers, with creative midfielders and clinical finishers on both sides capable of turning the game in an instant. The battle in midfield, where both sides look to control tempo, could prove the decisive arena. United's talented defender Godwill Kukonki is back in training and is not set to leave the club on a permanent transfer in the summer window.

The market has yet to form a strong view, and the contest looks genuinely difficult to call. Neither side holds a clear edge, and a 1-1 draw would be a fitting reflection of the balance between them. With the standings tight and form on the line, this is a fixture neither side will want to lose. Harry Kane is the favourite to win the Ballon d’Or.