The stage is set for a thrilling showdown in the roller hockey championship semifinals. Tonight, Sporting and FC Porto face off at 8 PM at the Pavilhão João Rocha arena, each determined to start strong.
Sporting, having secured second place in the regular season, enjoys home advantage. However, their journey to the semifinals was far from smooth. They struggled to overcome Sanjoanense in the first round, which went to a third game. In contrast, FC Porto cruised past Juventude Pacense with a convincing 11-5 win in just two games.
This marks the second consecutive year that Sporting and FC Porto clash for a spot in the final. Last season, the two teams were evenly matched, with each side winning two games. The decisive fifth game ended in a 5-5 tie, with FC Porto ultimately triumphing in a penalty shootout.
This season, Sporting has already shown its mettle against FC Porto, winning 4-0 in the first leg and drawing 3-3 in the return match at the Dragão Arena.
Meanwhile, in the other semifinal, Benfica takes on Óquei de Barcelos at the same time. Although Benfica has avoided its main rivals so far, it must now overcome the reigning European champion to keep its title hopes alive.
You can follow the roller hockey championship semifinals live here.
Head-to-Head Matchups
The Sporting and FC Porto matchup promises to be intense, with both teams having a rich history of competition. Here are some key stats:
- Sporting won 4-0 in the first leg of their previous encounter
- FC Porto drew 3-3 with Sporting in the return match
- The two teams have met in the semifinals for the second consecutive year
Benfica vs Óquei de Barcelos
In the other semifinal, Benfica faces a tough challenge against the reigning European champion. Can they overcome the obstacle and keep their title dreams alive? The stage is set for an exciting matchup.