Young striker surprise pick by Rui Borges for Sporting v Casa Pia | OneFootball

Rafael Nel is the latest "new face" among Rui Borges’ options for the match against Casa Pia, at a time when the Lions’ attack is undergoing several forced changes. The young striker, who has been one of the standout players for the B team, has earned the coach’s trust to be included in the main squad’s call-up list. The player’s promotion comes at a crucial moment in the season, with the squad’s depth being tested due to injuries and market movements.

Absences in the offensive sector prompted this decision by the green and white technical team for tomorrow’s clash. With Fotis Ioannidis still in the medical department and the imminent departure of Rodrigo Ribeiro to Augsburg, Rui Borges was left with limited options for the center of attack. Rafael Nel thus becomes the only direct alternative to Colombian Luis Suárez, who is expected to be the undisputed starter up front against the “gansos.”

Nel’s development has been closely monitored, standing out for his finishing ability and physical presence in the opponent’s box. This will be a golden opportunity for the player to earn minutes with the main team and show that he can be a valid long-term solution for the Lions’ project.

This season, the Sporting B striker—valued at 1.5 million euros—has been one of the main highlights of the secondary team. With 1,037 minutes played in 16 official matches, the 20-year-old striker has six goals and four assists.

As for the match, the Lions face Casa Pia tomorrow, Friday, January 16. The game, counting for the 18th round of Liga Portugal Betclic, against the team led by Álvaro Pacheco, will be played at 8:15 p.m. at Estádio José de Alvalade.

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