Sporting signing arrived a fortnight ago, starred against Torreense | OneFootball

Sporting kicked off the 2026/27 pre-season schedule with a 2-0 win over Torreense, in a match that allowed Rui Borges to draw several important conclusions before the training camp in Lagos. Still without the international players available, the Sporting coach took the opportunity to assess alternative options and saw some players stand out right away in the first pre-season test.

Among the names that drew the most attention was Sergi Altimira. The Spanish signing took charge of midfield alongside Issa Doumbia and quickly showed qualities that pleased the coaching staff. With good fitness, intensity and the ability to speed up ball circulation, the midfielder emerged as one of the standout performers of the match and showed signs that he could play an important role in the new season.

Another notable point was the use of Souleymane Faye at right-back. With Iván Fresneda and Georgios Vagiannidis absent, Rui Borges decided to test the Senegalese player in a less familiar position. In central defence, Eduardo Quaresma partnered Eduardo Felicíssimo, while Ricardo Mangas naturally occupied the left flank. Pote, meanwhile, played in the number 10 role, a position that should belong to Rodrigo Zalazar once the Uruguayan is fully integrated.

In attack, the coach once again showed faith in Sporting’s academy. Flávio Gonçalves appeared on the left wing, Gabriel Silva was used as the attacking reference point, and Geny Catamo remained the choice on the right. Fotis Ioannidis, however, was not used. The Greek forward is still working his way back to competitive rhythm after the long layoff caused by injury and was rested as a precaution.

After a goalless first half, the second half brought changes and also the decisive moments of the match. Silas Andersen came on and needed little time to make his mark. The Danish midfielder took advantage of a cross into the box and opened the scoring with an accurate finish. Shortly afterwards, Daniel Bragança doubled the lead to 2-0 with a left-footed strike inside the area, sealing Sporting’s victory.

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