Sporting took a huge step towards the hockey league finals with a 3-2 win over FC Porto.
The team was determined to put last season’s elimination behind them.
Rafael Bessa scored just 2 minutes in, dodging opponents with ease.
FC Porto was shocked.
Mena got a blue card for tripping Nolito with his stick just 3 minutes later.
The team was down to 4 players.
But they managed to stop the free kick.
Both teams had chances, but their goalies made some great saves.
Then Sporting scored again on a free kick after Rafa fouled Pujadas.
João Souto coolly scored, making it 2-0.
FC Porto didn’t give up.
But even their star player, Girão, seemed off.
The posts helped stop their comeback.
The second half was slow, but Sporting had some great moments.
Facundo Bridge scored the third goal 11 minutes from the end.
He ran from the left to the middle and scored.
Just when it seemed over, FC Porto surged back.
Hélder Nunes scored an amazing goal from midfield at the 45-minute mark.
Mena added another 2 minutes later.
But Sporting held on, unbeaten against FC Porto for the 4th game in a row.
The two teams face off again on June 1 at the Dragão Arena.
Key Stats
- Sporting won 3-2
- Rafael Bessa scored the first goal at 2′
- João Souto made it 2-0 on a free kick
- Facundo Bridge scored the third goal at 79′