The anticipation is building for the Portuguese Super Cup clash between Sporting Lisbon and Porto.
Set to take place at the Estadio Municipal de Aveiro on August 3, 2024, this match promises an exciting contest between two of Portugal’s most storied clubs. Here’s a detailed preview including team news, form, and predictions.
Match Preview
Sporting Lisbon’s Recent Form
Sporting Lisbon is riding high after a historic 2023-24 season, where they clinched the Primeira Liga title.
This success marked their first league triumph since 2021. Key to their victory was Viktor Gyokeres, who netted 43 goals and provided 14 assists.
Sporting’s formidable home form was a cornerstone of their campaign, winning all 17 home fixtures.
Their pre-season has been solid, with wins against Sevilla and Athletic Bilbao showcasing their readiness.
Porto’s Recent Form
Porto, on the other hand, had a mixed 2023-24 season. Despite a disappointing third-place finish in the Primeira Liga, they secured the Taca de Portugal, ensuring their spot in the Super Cup.
Under new manager Vitor Bruno, Porto has had a strong pre-season, winning all five of their warm-up matches.
However, they face the challenge of adapting to Bruno’s tactics after Sergio Conceicao's departure.
Team News
Sporting Lisbon
Sporting has seen some changes in their squad. Veteran center-back Sebastian Coates has left for Nacional, with Zeno Debast filling the void.
Key players Pedro Goncalves and Trincao have impressed in pre-season and are expected to start.
The lineup will likely feature Gyokeres spearheading the attack, supported by Goncalves and Trincao on the flanks.
Predicted Lineup: Kovacevic; Geny, Quaresma, Inacio, Debast; Quenda, Hjulmand, Morita; Goncalves, Trincao; Gyokeres.
Porto
Porto will miss left-back Zaidu Sanusi due to a long-term injury, with young Martim Fernandes likely to step in.
The team will rely on experienced players like Evanilson and new captain Otavio to lead the charge.
The tactical shift under Bruno will be under scrutiny as they aim to reclaim dominance.
Predicted Lineup: Ramos; Mario, Pedro, Otavio, Fernandes; Varela, Grujic, Borges, Gonzalez, Galeno; Loader.
Prediction
Given the current form and stability in the squad, Sporting Lisbon is favoured to win. Porto’s transition under a new manager might give Sporting the edge they need.
Our Prediction: Sporting Lisbon 2-1 Porto