Sporting Lineup: Borges Calls Five Youngsters, Makes One Change Against Gil
The Sporting lineup is in flux as they prepare for a critical match against Gil Vicente. The encounter marks the 17th round of the league and will take place in Barcelos at 18:45. Gil Vicente has been one of the surprising teams this season, currently sitting in fourth place.
Injuries Impacting the Squad
Coach Rui Borges faces significant challenges with several key players sidelined. The following players are not available:
- Debast
- Pedro Gonçalves
- Geovany Quenda
- Daniel Bragança
- Nuno Santos
Additionally, young winger Salvador Blopa is also out due to minor muscle complaints, which may keep him off the field for up to two weeks. Diomande and Geny Catamo are away on international duty representing Ivory Coast and Mozambique, respectively, for the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN).
Young Talents Joining the Squad
Due to these numerous absences, Borges has included five promising youngsters in the squad to travel north:
- Rômulo (Defender)
- Rodrigo Dias (Defender)
- Eduardo Felicíssimo (Midfielder)
- Flávio Gonçalves (Forward)
- Rodrigo Ribeiro (Forward)
Defensive Adjustments
Rui Silva remains the first-choice goalkeeper. With the absence of Vagiannidis, Fresneda is set to take the right-back position. Eduardo Quaresma has stepped up to fill in for Diomande, demonstrating solid performances. He will partner with Gonçalo Inácio in defense.
Midfield and Forward Line Changes
The midfield will be anchored by captain Hjulmand, alongside João Simões, who has moved ahead of Morita in the pecking order. Trincão, a key player for Sporting, will shift from a central position to the right side due to Geny’s absence.
For the fourth consecutive match, Fotis Ioannidis is likely to start. With Pedro Gonçalves injured, Maxi Araújo has moved up the left side, scoring four goals since making the adjustment. Striker Luis Suárez, coming off a hat trick performance against Rio Ave, remains the primary offensive threat for Sporting.
Conclusion
As Sporting approaches the match against Gil Vicente, they will need to adapt quickly to the challenges posed by injuries and absences. The incorporation of young talent could prove vital for the team’s success in this crucial league fixture.
