Sporting’s young guns fired them to a crucial 2-0 victory over Valadares Gaia. This win keeps them hot on the heels of league leaders Benfica, who sit on seven points from an extra game. The lionesses, as they’re known, now boast six points, signaling their intent in the title race.
Right from the whistle, Micael Sequeira’s side took control of the game. Yet, truly breaking through Valadares’ stout defense at Alcochete proved tough. The visitors were organized, holding strong until the brink of halftime. Then, a moment of brilliance arrived. Carolina Santiago, showing poise, found the net in the 44th minute. It was a well-worked finish from inside the box, a vital opener. This marked her fourth goal of the competition.
After the break, Sporting chased a second goal with renewed energy. Both MaÃsa Correia and Santiago herself came close, missing by mere inches. Valadares, refusing to surrender, pushed forward, hoping to level the score. But sometimes, boldness backfires on the attack. Deep into injury time, at 90’+4, Sporting launched a lightning-fast counter-attack. Matilde Nave was perfectly placed to finish the move, sealing another triumph for the lionesses.