Sporting Lisbon will aim to maintain their dominance at the top of the Primeira Liga when they host Famalicao in round 26 on Saturday. With a three-point lead over Benfica, who have a game in hand, Sporting are in fine form and chasing their fourth consecutive victory.
Rui Borges’ men have turned things around since ending a winless five-game run across all competitions. Their recent victories over Estoril Praia and Casa Pia in the league, along with a Taca de Portugal win against Gil Vicente, have restored confidence in the squad. Sporting are now unbeaten in 12 league matches, with their last defeat coming against Moreirense in December.
The Lions have an impressive home record, winning 10 of their 12 league games at the Estádio José Alvalade this season. Their 31 points at home are only surpassed by Benfica, and they will look to extend their winning streak against a Famalicao side they’ve beaten in their last seven meetings, including a 3-0 triumph in the reverse fixture.
Famalicao, however, are not to be underestimated. Hugo Oliveira’s side responded to their loss against Nacional with a narrow 1-0 victory over Rio Ave, courtesy of a 19th-minute strike from Sorriso. This win marked their fourth in seven matches, matching the total from their previous 18 games.
Famalicao’s recent success has been built on a solid defense, keeping six clean sheets in their last seven outings. Their away form has also been impressive, with 16 points collected from 12 games, making them the league’s sixth-best travelers. With 18 goals scored on the road, they are also one of the most prolific away sides in the division.
Sporting will rely on Viktor Gyokeres, who continued his phenomenal form with a brace against Casa Pia, taking his tally to 27 league goals. The return of Morten Hjulmand and Hidemasa Morita further strengthens the midfield, though key absentees like Pedro Goncalves, Nuno Santos, and Jeremiah St. Juste could pose challenges for Borges’ squad.
Famalicao, on the other hand, will depend on Sorriso’s creativity and the defensive partnership of Riccieli and Mihaj to frustrate Sporting’s attack. Lazar Carevic is expected to retain his place between the posts, while Gil Dias and Rochinha provide options off the bench.
Despite Famalicao’s defensive resilience, Sporting’s attacking firepower and recent momentum make them favorites to secure a narrow win and maintain their title charge.