Rui Borges already has a plan for Porto v Sporting | OneFootball

Sporting take to the field at the Dragão against Porto under heavy strain, after their European tie against Arsenal and the derby with Benfica, but with a clear objective: to secure a place in the Portuguese Cup final. Rui Borges’ side defend the 1-0 advantage brought from the first leg.

Despite the accumulated fatigue, a major shake-up in the starting eleven is not expected. The squad’s limitations, especially due to the number of injured players, force the coach to stick with continuity, with only a few specific adjustments to balance the team.

In defence, Zeno Debast emerges as a strong candidate to come in for Ousmane Diomande, offering greater ability to play out from the back and forming a partnership with Gonçalo Inácio. This could be one of Rui Borges’ main changes.

However, the coach may also make changes in midfield. Hidemasa Morita’s physical condition could lead to Daniel Bragança coming into the starting eleven for the Clássico, ensuring greater composure in possession and creativity in attacking play.

Meanwhile, the main doubt lies on the right flank. With Iván Fresneda out, the choice should come down to Georgios Vagiannidis and Eduardo Quaresma. The Greek offers greater attacking depth, but the Portuguese international’s defensive consistency could weigh in the decision, especially in a match where managing the advantage will be decisive.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇵🇹 here.