Sporting Lisbon is set to host Estrela Amadora at the Estadio Jose Alvalade on Sunday for Matchday 12 of the Primeira Liga. The team, known as the Lions, is eager to extend their impressive performance, having won eight of their last nine matches across all competitions. Their latest victory was a 3-0 win over Club Brugge in the Champions League.
Match Preview: Key Facts for Sporting Lisbon vs Estrela Amadora
This match presents a unique opportunity for both teams. Sporting aims to maintain their momentum heading into a crucial Lisbon Derby next week against rivals Benfica. Meanwhile, Estrela is striving for their third unbeaten match in the top flight this season.
Sporting Lisbon’s Recent Form
- Current Primeira Liga standing: 2nd place
- Total points: 28 from 9 wins, 1 draw, 1 loss
- Recent home form: Five consecutive wins with three clean sheets
Sporting’s resurgence has been highlighted by young talent Geovany Quenda, who recently made history as the youngest Portuguese player to reach 15 Champions League appearances. Quenda contributed significantly to the team’s recent match with a goal and an assist. Captain Morten Hjulmand also starred in the previous league match, scoring a stoppage-time header against Santa Clara.
Estrela Amadora’s Challenge
- Current Primeira Liga standing: 12th place
- Total points: 11 from 2 wins, 5 draws, 4 losses
Estrela Amadora aims to avoid slipping into the relegation zone, sitting just two points clear of the playoff spot. Their recent performances include a dramatic win over Casa Pia and a draw against Nacional. Sidny Lopes Cabral has been a standout player, recently converting a penalty to secure a draw in their last outing.
Team News
For Sporting Lisbon, several players remain unavailable. Although Pedro Goncalves has returned to training, he is not expected to play this weekend. Luis Suarez is likely to lead the attack, aiming to add to his eight league goals this season. Other absentees include Zeno Debast, Daniel Braganca, and Nuno Santos due to injuries.
Estrela’s defense may see changes as well. Head coach Joao Nuno is considering shifting personnel due to injuries and tactical decisions. A three-man defense featuring Luan Patrick, Bernardo Schappo, and Atanas Chernev could be utilized, with Paulo Moreira and Oumar Ngom anchoring the midfield.
Predictions for the Match
The prediction for this encounter leans towards a decisive win for Sporting Lisbon. The team’s current form, strong home record, and their ability to maintain clean sheets make them formidable opponents. Estrela Amadora faces a significant challenge in escaping with a positive result.
Final prediction: Sporting Lisbon 3-0 Estrela Amadora.
