FC Porto are expected to keep their preferred 4-3-3 formation when they face PSV Eindhoven in the third round of the Champions League league phase on Tuesday, 20 October 2026.
The match is scheduled to begin at 19:00 GMT, with both sides preparing for an important league-phase fixture.
Porto’s likely team
The Portuguese side are set to rely on a familiar structure built around a back four, a three-man midfield and an attacking trio. The system is designed to provide defensive stability, allow the midfield to control the pace of the game and give the forwards freedom to threaten from wide areas and through the centre.
Diogo Costa is expected to start in goal, behind a defence of Martim Fernandes, Pablo Rosario, Jakub Kiwior and Francisco Moura.
Victor Froholdt, Alan Varela and Gabri Veiga are the likely midfield three, while Borja Sainz, Andre Da Silva and Pepe are set to lead the attack.
FC Porto probable XI: Diogo Costa; Martim Fernandes, Pablo Rosario, Jakub Kiwior, Francisco Moura; Victor Froholdt, Alan Varela, Gabri Veiga; Borja Sainz, Andre Da Silva, Pepe.
PSV’s likely team
PSV Eindhoven are expected to line up in their usual 4-2-3-1 formation, with two deeper midfielders providing protection in front of the defence.
The Dutch club’s attacking approach is likely to feature three players operating behind a lone central striker, giving them options between the lines while maintaining a clear focal point in attack.
Matej Kovar should start in goal, with Sergino Dest, L. Geertruida, A. Obispo and Filip Kostic forming the defensive line.
Dennis Man, Mauro Junior, Guus Til, Kodai Sano and Ayoni Santos are the expected midfielders, with Sven Mijnans named as the probable centre-forward.
PSV probable XI: Matej Kovar; Sergino Dest, L. Geertruida, A. Obispo, Filip Kostic; Dennis Man, Mauro Junior, Guus Til, Kodai Sano, Ayoni Santos; Sven Mijnans.
Ahead of the fixture, the listed betting prices make FC Porto favourites at 1.52. A draw is priced at 4.30, while a PSV victory is listed at 4.60.
