Another cup competition starts today, where we are the holders of the last cup. Famalicão is our opponent, a team we haven't beaten in the league in our last 5 games against them. With only 3 teams in our group, and Famalicao already winning their game 5-0 against Penafiel, this is already a must win game if we want to progress to the final 4.
Tiago Tomas was expected to start but apparently had a last minute injury. Jovane (yikes) starting in his place. Starting XI: João Virgínia; Neto, Gonçalo Inácio, Feddal; Esgaio, Ugarte, Matheus Nunes, Rúben Vinagre; Sarabia, Jovane, Nuno Santos Subs: Adán, Matheus Reis, Palhinha, Tabata, Paulinho, Pedro Porro, Pote, Geny Catamo, Daniel Bragança.
Nuno Santos looks like Nuno Mendes in white face with some of these crosses from the left. That one to Sarabia was beauty.
Dominant but game slowed down. If we tried a bit more we could probably have another. You can sew Sarabia's quality. Keeps his head up, plays first time passes, he's definitely a level above in terms of IQ. Ugarte has also looked good IMO. Jovane continues to disappoint so much.
I believe Im one of those who suggested Nuno Santos at left back. It’s sad that he’s better than Vinagre. Nuno Santos is a very good player who is adaptable and is a hustler. Love the guy . Ugarte looks good in the little bit that I have seen. Good to see him score.
Only yellow card Sporting players. Never yellow card Famalicao players. Yellows carry over to the liga games. Obvious what's going on here.
I posted that before Neto's yellow. Famalicao player that conceded the handball that should've been a PK, also kicked Sarabia in the nuts and got no cards. How Famalicao has no bookings is amazing.
The most notable thing Jovane did this game was get substituted. Wouldn’t have known he was on the field otherwise
Good work from Matheus on that goal, Sarabia blasting one in for a rebound and Nuno calm and collective buried it.
Pote with some bad decision making as of late. Holding on to the ball too long, not sending a through ball to a open player etc. He's clearly forcing his play. The goals will come man.