In a traditionally challenging stadium, Sporting aimed to reclaim the top spot in the Liga Placard after eight rounds, following Braga’s draw against Elétrico. Despite a game that wasn’t always smooth for the Lisbon team, particularly in the second half, Sporting displayed overall strength and secured a 4-1 victory over Ferreira do Zêzere.
The Lions needed a win and faced this match without some key players: captain João Matos, Sokolov, and the league’s top scorer, Taynan. Nevertheless, they showed early intent to score first. Merlin and Bernardo Paçó issued initial warnings, and shortly after, Pauleta capitalized on a corner to make it 1-0.
Pressing high
The green and whites saw Rafa Félix scoring within the first five minutes. The agile player retrieved the ball in midfield, outplayed the goalkeeper one-on-one, shifted to his left foot, and found the net.
Despite an improved performance from the home team after the technical break, it was Sporting who struck again, with Zicky Té scoring this time. In a well-crafted move from the back, Pauleta on the left flank spotted the pivot on the opposite side with an excellent pass, extending the lead to 3-0 close to halftime.
IN CONTROL
Following a better start from Ferreira do Zêzere. Hitting the post in the 24th minute, Ricardo Lobão’s side couldn’t shift the momentum and conceded a fourth goal three minutes later. Hugo Neves capitalized on a first-half turnover after a fumble by Pany, leaving Nilton no chance.
Moreover, Nilton, the goalkeeper of Ferreira do Zêzere, was the only one able to breach Sporting’s defense. Squeezing a shot past the wall created by Bernardo Paçó. Dashing down the right flank, the goalkeeper fired low and hard between his opponent’s legs.
With the game under control, Sporting eased into cruise mode. Committing some errors and offering chances to Ferreira do Zêzere, who failed to capitalize at crucial moments. Despite several opportunities to narrow the deficit, neither Pedro Peixoto, Duarte Correira, nor Xiquito Ferreira could beat the goalkeeper.
Sporting reclaimed the top spot in the championship, reasserting their dominance – a position they hadn’t held since round 11 – with 53 points, two ahead of the warriors. Meanwhile, Ferreira do Zêzere remains well-positioned for the playoffs, currently sitting sixth with 25 points.