Academica De Coimbra vs Sporting CP Lisbon Match Preview
Sporting produced a Jekyll and Hyde performance in the last round, with a brilliant first-half display followed by a disastrous late collapse and ultimately defeat against Guimaraes. The Lions need to start putting together a string of results if people are to take Paulo Sergio’s continued affirmations that they are title contenders seriously.
In Helder Postiga and Jaime Valdes at least the Lisbon club seem to have hit upon a winning formula up front. But it is at the back where Sporting have looked vulnerable all season, and Academica’s potent duo Miguel Fidalgo and Sougou will test them to the limit.
Academica De Coimbra vs Sporting CP Lisbon Match Report
Sporting came out on top in a highly entertaining clash in Coimbra. The rejuvenated Jaime Valdes put the Lions in front early on from the penalty spot, and Vukcevic doubled Sporting’s lead on the half hour with a crisp shot to finish off a fine flowing move involving Postiga and Valdes.
Academica came back strongly after the break, and the impressive Miguel Fidalgo headed the hosts back into contention from a corner kick on 46 minutes. Chances came and went at both ends of the pitch, with Sporting goalkeeper Rui Patricio guaranteeing all three points from his side with a wonderful save from Fidalgo in the 64th minute.