Sporting Left Waiting for Portuguese Title as Benfica Stages Comeback to Secure Derby Draw

Sporting will have to wait until the last day of the Primeira Liga season in their quest to defend their title, having settled for a 1-1 draw against their closest rivals, Benfica, on Saturday.

The two teams from the Portuguese capital entered the match level on points, but Sporting held the edge due to their head-to-head record. They appeared set to take a crucial step towards a 21st league title when Francisco Trincao found the back of the net just four minutes in.

However, Benfica fought back to equalise in the 63rd minute, with Kerem Akturkoglu converting from close range after Vangelis Pavlidis dazzled the defence with a remarkable solo run, igniting the home crowd at Estadio da Luz.

Sporting remains in first place and can secure the title by at least matching Benfica’s result on the final day. They will face Vitoria Guimaraes, while Benfica takes on Sporting Braga in what promises to be an exciting conclusion to the season next Saturday.