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Rui Borges refuses to reveal whether João Virgínia and Ousmane Diomande will be starters for Sporting against Braga

04 Oct 2025 | 12:44 |

Sporting and Braga face off in the eighth round of the National Championship. In the preview of the match, Rui Borges was asked about Braga’s current form and possible changes to Sporting’s starting eleven, with the inclusion of João Virgínia and Ousmane Diomande, but he did not reveal the starters.

"I expect a strong Braga, as is the club, the coach, and the team. It is always a great team that has not yet lost away from home, wants to be dominant, makes a lot of crosses, and relies heavily on their wide players. Very strong, regardless of the results. And they come motivated by their Europa League result. We expect a tough match, but on our side, there will also be a super-motivated team, in a packed stadium, that will do everything to win."

As for the changes, Rui Borges was direct: "Everyone has to be prepared to play and not play. Whoever comes in will give a good response. The coaching staff’s confidence is the same for everyone and the ambition is collective. Whoever plays will put on a great performance."

This season, wearing Sporting’s shirt, João Virgínia – valued at 800 thousand euros – has played three matches, totaling 270 minutes and conceding two goals. The goalkeeper was also used in the Troféu Cinco Violinos, against Villarreal, due to Rui Silva’s unavailability.

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