Manchester United face Braga on Tuesday night in the first of back-to-back matches against the Portuguese side in Group H.

Two wins would see United qualify with two games to spare after victories against Cluj and Galatasaray but, with Braga opening their account with an impressive win away in Turkey themselves last time out, this will be a tough test for Ferguson’s men.

Match Odds: 

Man Utd – 4/11 Paddy Power (Bet £10 win £13.62)

Draw – 4/1 Sportingbet (Bet £10 win £50)

Braga – 9/1 Blue Square (Bet £10 win £100)

Braga have little pedigree at Champions League level and possess few household names, but qualified for the group stage by overcoming Italian club Udinese and are unbeaten in their last five matches against English opposition. In spite of losing last year’s top scorer Lima in the summer, Jose Peseiro’s side play with width and pace and will create chances going forward. Manchester United’s recent performances in the Premier League have suggested one or two defensive frailties, conceding more goals than expected at this stage of the season. With club captain Vidic still out and Rio Ferdinand struggling for form, United have struggled to find a midfield combination that can distribute the ball as well as Paul Scholes but also provide a shield for his backline in a way that the 37-year-old no longer can. This can leave them vulnerable to the quick counter-attack, as Tottenham’s Bale and Lennon, and Stoke’s Keightly and Walters, have proved over recent weeks. Five goals conceded in their last two home games suggest all is not right at Old Trafford. Braga possess such a man; aptly named holding midfielder Custodio will play a key role for Braga away from home breaking up play and retaining the ball for his side.

That said, Manchester United should still possess enough quality in the attacking third to win the game. Rooney looks to be regaining form and forming an understanding with Robin Van Persie, plus in Nani and Valencia they possess a wide threat of their own that will force Braga’s fullbacks to focus on defensive duties instead of pouring forward. Rooney’s movement and his tendency to drop into midfield will present problems for Custodio et al, and United should come through. However, both teams to score has to be the best bet here, with two sides who create chances and United less than secure at the back so far this year.

Man Utd vs Braga Best Bet

Both Teams to Score – Evens with Boylesports (bet £10 win £20)

Best Betting Bonuses for Man Utd v Braga (click the offer to get the free bet):

Boylesports – free £20          Blue Square – free £25          Paddy Power – bet £10 get £20          Sportingbet – risk free £50          Betway – risk free £25