The youth championship has proven tricky for two of Portugal’s biggest clubs. Both Benfica and Sporting stumbled again, dropping points for the second game in a row. It seems even the rising stars face tough challenges.
Benfica, often called “The Reds,” endured a nail-biting trip to Alverca. They looked set for defeat for much of the game. Alverca’s Diogo Peixoto scored just before halftime, putting his team ahead at the 44-minute mark. Benfica struggled to find an equalizer as the clock ticked down.
Then, deep into added time, a crucial moment arrived. Tomás Almeida stepped up to take a penalty. He held his nerve, converting the kick at 90’+2. This dramatic goal secured a 1-1 draw, snatching a point from what seemed like a certain loss.
Meanwhile, Sporting, known as “The Lions,” faced their own disappointment. They actually took the lead against Real. Guilherme Varela found the back of the net in the 62nd minute. It seemed like Sporting was in control and heading for a win.
However, Real had other plans and mounted a strong comeback. Jaylen Jones leveled the score in the 70th minute. Things turned worse for Sporting when their defender, Francisco Cabeçana, received a red card at 77 minutes. Playing with ten men, Sporting couldn’t hold on. Martim Matias scored Real’s winning goal in the 88th minute, completing a 2-1 comeback and leaving Sporting empty-handed.