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An all-Portuguese affair in Dublin
Porto and Braga are almost neighbours but their heritage and playing styles are so different that Wednesday's first all-Portuguese Europa League final is expected to be a clash of contrasts. Winners 2007-10 | Probable teams
Porto and Braga are almost neighbours but their heritage and playing styles are so different that Wednesday's first all-Portuguese Europa League final is expected to be a clash of contrasts.
Coach Andre Villas Boas has built a vintage Porto side, marrying a fluid and rampant attack with a hard-working midfield and a solid defence to lift the domestic title and reach a European final in his first season at the club.
The front pairing of prolific Colombia striker Falcao, who has scored a record 16 goals in a single Europa League season, and burly Brazilian Hulk means the side is seldom dull to watch.
Based a mere 50 kilometres north of Porto, Domingos' Braga were the surprise package in the competition as they relied on their clinical counter attacking style to reach the final.
Their other weapons have been a solid defence built around strong South Americans and fast Portuguese players, pinpoint passing by midfielder Hugo Viana and efficient finishing by Brazilian forwards Lima and Alan.
