Sporting CP and SL Benfica decide the title of the League Cup (Allianz Cup) for the 2024/25 season
Now it’s a decision! Sporting and Benfica face each other in the grand final of the Portuguese League Cup for the third time in the history of the competition, created in the 2007/08 season. Despite both being giants of Rio football, their clashes in the final stage of the tournament are rare, making this duel even more special.
Rui Borges will have the chance to win his first title at Sporting CP. Under his leadership, the Lions recovered their good football and convinced with solid performances. Players like Hjulmand, Morita and Trincão shone again, bringing hope of a winning season to the fans. In this edition of the League Cup, Sporting advanced after beating CD Nacional 3-1 at the José Alvalade Stadium and beat FC Porto 1-0 at a neutral venue, in the city hosting the final, Leiria.
Benfica reaches the final with the mission of regaining the trust of its fans. Since Bruno Lage’s arrival, the team has shown progress, but stumbles, especially at home, frustrated the Red and Blacks. After leading the Liga Portugal, the team lost ground in the title race, but winning the League Cup could be the fuel needed for a recovery in the second half of the season.
To reach the decision, Benfica defeated Santa Clara 3-0 at Estádio da Luz, in Leiria, they also beat SC Braga 3-0, with outstanding performances from Ángel Di María and other stars. Now, the promise is of an electrifying classic between two historic rivals in search of glory.
Pre-game press conference
Rui Borges spoke about being in the final and analyzed the opponent:
“I’m happy to be in the final, regardless of the opponent. Benfica’s changes, its principles, don’t change. What changes are individual characteristics. We are very prepared for what Benfica can implement in their game. I believe there may be some changes in relation to the meeting with SC Braga, which they won very well and categorically, but I believe the team will give a great response. It’s in a good place.”
Bruno Lage will play in his first League Cup final and spoke about expectations:
“Our expectations are the best. We reached the final and we want to win. We prepared the game well, technically, tactically, strategically and emotionally. We are ready to play a good game and win. The most important thing is our desire to play in the final and be able to increase the number of League Cups won by Benfica.”
Sporting CP x SL Benfica
According to data from zerozero, the teams have already faced each other 4 times in the Copa Paulista. Sporting won 1 game, compared to Benfica’s 2 wins and 1 draw.
Technical Sheet
Local: Municipal Stadium Dr. Magalhães Pessoa, Leiria (POR).
Date and Time: Saturday, January 11, 2025, at 4:45 pm (Brasília Time).
Competition: League Cup – Final.
Sports More on Instagram
Sports More on Facebook
