Let’s not be mistaken. If, during the draw that designated LOSC’s opponents, we mainly talked about Real, Atlético de Madrid, Juventus or Liverpool, we could also have added Sporting Portugal. This first bone on the menu for the Dogues for their first trip in the league phase of the event is incontestably the most underrated.
It is not very well known outside the Portuguese borders, much less than its historic rival Benfica. And it is no coincidence that many football fans in Europe regularly mispronounce its name by calling it Sporting Lisbon.
“It’s still the club that trained Cristiano Ronaldo, and that counts in people’s minds.”
In the Portuguese capital, no one makes the mistake. Including those who are not fans. I am for Benfica, always have been, that’s how it is, but I have nothing against Sporting Portugal. Benfica is the most popular club here, and I’m not saying that because I like the club, it’s a reality. ” explains Gonzalo, a taxi driver. In fact, it is estimated that around six million Portuguese are fans of Benfica, out of a population of just over ten million. That gives you an idea of the level of popularity…
But as he takes us back from the José Alvalade stadium, where fifty thousand spectators will cheer on the Sporting “Lions” this Tuesday night, Gonzalo explains what also makes Sporting Portugal an institution in the country: ” Firstly, it is not just a football club, it plays many different sports; its green and white stripes are famous all over the country. And secondly, it is still the club that trained Cristiano Ronaldo, and that counts in people’s minds. »
The Gyökeres phenomenon
Ranked 32e UEFA ranking, only five places above LOSC, SCP is also clearly the best Portuguese club at the moment, despite its rivals. The reigning Portuguese champion, it has also had an exceptional start to the season with five wins in five games, 19 goals scored and only two conceded.
His European experience is also richer than that of Lille and his centre forward, the Swede Viktor Gyökeres, shines. He is clearly becoming one of the best centre-forwards in Europe. “, recalls Bruno Genesio, who is not afraid to announce that “ Sporting is the favorite “.
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