Sporting Lisbon have the chance to breathe life into their title charge with a trip to AVS this weekend. The Lions will be hoping to return to winning ways against a side that has already been relegated.
Sporting’s Recent Form Struggles
Sporting are without a win in their last three matches across all competitions, drawing twice and losing once. This run has seen them fall to third in the Primeira Liga table. However, they did manage to secure progression to the Taca de Portugal final during this period.
The Lions’ only victory in their last five matches in all competitions came against Estrela Amadora. A 2-1 defeat to Benfica in the Lisbon derby last weekend has dented their hopes of closing in on the summit. Rui Borges’ side are one point behind Benfica and eight adrift of the top, but they do have a game in hand.
With five matches left, Sporting’s hopes of repeating last season’s league and cup double have been dealt a blow. They have, though, reached another Taca de Portugal final, where they will face Torreense.
Attacking Concerns for the Lions
Sporting have struggled for goals recently, failing to score in three of their last five matches. This includes the goalless draw against Arsenal which saw them exit the Champions League. They have only managed two goals across that period.
Despite these concerns, Sporting have netted a league-high 74 goals this season. Their attacking struggles may be a temporary blip. Facing an AVS side that has conceded the most goals in the division (64) offers an ideal chance to respond.
AVS’s Woes Continue
AVS have struggled in all areas this season. They have conceded the most goals in the league (64) and scored the joint-fewest (21). They have also registered the least number of victories (one) and suffered the most defeats (19).
AVS are winless in their last eight matches, drawing five and losing three. Their relegation was confirmed after a 2-2 draw at Rio Ave last weekend. Tomane and Pedro Lima scored for AVS, but they conceded an equaliser 11 minutes from time.
With four games remaining, Joao Henriques’ side sit bottom of the table. They are 13 points adrift of the playoff spot.