In the upcoming match of the prestigious Taça de Portugal, three football giants are set to make their mark. Sporting Clube de Portugal, S.L. Benfica, and F.C. Porto are all facing lower-division opponents in the fourth elimination round. These matches offer the chance for the giants to advance smoothly in the competition.
Match Previews
Sporting vs. Marinhense
The defending champions, Sporting, will host Marinhense, a team from the fourth tier of Portuguese football. Sporting is currently positioned second in the Primeira Liga and enters this match with confidence. They barely secured their place in the fourth round after a challenging game against a second division opponent, leading to extra time.
Marinhense arrives in turmoil, having suspended their head coach, Rui Sacramento, due to allegations of psychological abuse towards players. This coaching shake-up might impact their performance against the stronger Sporting side.
Benfica vs. Atlético
Benfica, the record-holders in the Taça de Portugal with 26 titles, will kick off the fourth round today against Atlético, who plays in the third division. Historically, Benfica has had an upper hand in this matchup, winning seven out of the last eight encounters.
The match will take place at Estádio do Restelo, a temporary home for Atlético, after Benfica’s recent victory over Chaves. This matchup is critical for Benfica as they aim to continue their quest for another title.
FC Porto vs. Sintrense
FC Porto, a dominant force with 20 titles in the Taça de Portugal, will host Sintrense from the Campeonato de Portugal. Under the guidance of Italian coach Francesco Farioli, Porto enters the match riding high after a commanding win against Celoricense, with a 4-0 scoreline in the previous round.
Sintrense proved their mettle by defeating higher division teams Vizela and Rio Ave. Facing Porto again, they will look to replicate their giant-killing act from last season.
Upcoming Matches Schedule
The fourth elimination round will feature several exciting matches:
- Today:
- Atlético vs. Benfica at 20:30
- Tomorrow:
- AVS vs. Ac. Viseu at 11:00
- Alpendorada vs. Casa at 14:00
- V. Guimarães vs. Mortágua at 15:00
- Covilhã vs. Lus. Évora at 15:30
- U. Leiria vs. 1.º Dezembro at 16:00
- Estoril vs. Famalicão at 18:00
- Sporting vs. Marinhense at 18:00
- FC Porto vs. Sintrense at 20:15
- Sunday:
- Lus. Lourosa vs. Torreense at 11:00
- Vila Meã vs. Leixões at 14:00
- Fafe vs. Arouca at 14:00
- Farense vs. Silves at 15:00
- Santa Clara vs. Com. Indústria at 16:00
- Tondela vs. Caldas at 17:00
- Braga vs. Nacional at 17:30
This stage of the Taça de Portugal promises excitement and potential surprises as the giants prepare to face off against their lower-tier counterparts.
