In a highly anticipated national cup semi-final clash, Porto will host Sporting in the decisive second leg at the Dragão Stadium on Wednesday. Following a narrow 0-1 defeat in the first leg, Porto will be looking to overturn the deficit, while Sporting arrives with a slight edge and high morale.
The Dragons have shown strength in the earlier rounds of the tournament, cruising past Famalicão, Sintrense, and Celoricense, while eliminating Benfica in the quarter-finals. In their most recent league match, Porto secured a solid 2-0 victory over Tondela, allowing them to maintain their lead in the Primeira Liga. The team boasts an impressive home record with 20 wins from 25 matches this season; however, injuries have raised concerns about their attacking options.
Sporting travels to Porto confident despite recent challenges. After suffering a 1-2 loss in the derby against Benfica and being eliminated from the Champions League by Arsenal, they have only managed one win in their last four matches across all competitions. Yet, the Lions have proven tough to beat on the road, remaining unbeaten in 29 consecutive away games in domestic competitions. Notably, their last three visits to the Dragão ended in draws, demonstrating their resilience against formidable opponents.
Probable lineups
- Porto: Diogo Costa, Alberto Costa, Bednarek, Tiago Silva, Kiwior, Frøholt, Varela, Veiga, Pepe, Gül, Sainz
- Sporting: Silva, Vagiannidis, Diomande, Inácio, Araújo, Hjulmand, Morita, Catamo, Trincão, Pote, Suárez
Match facts and head-to-head
- Sporting are unbeaten in 29 consecutive away games in domestic competitions.
- The last three matches between these teams at the Dragão have ended in draws.
- Porto have won 20 of their 25 home games across all competitions this season.