Hello again our dear Bethome.com friends. With the game between Maritimo and Sporting we have the opening of the 24th round in Portugal, where as the time goes by, the matches become more and more interesting, especially at the top.


Maritimo vs Sporting CP.

 Maritimo seem to be unable in following their dream of a European ticket, after their 5 consecutive clashes without win and having been left 11 points behind 4th spot. Last week they lost by Pacos 0-1, in a match where they deserved better. They missed quite a few good chances but unfortunately none of them turned into goals. At home, they have thrown away many points, where as in previous years the factor “home game” was THE thing for Maritimo. Bruno (16/2), Fernando (13/0) Souza (18/0) are out while Alonso (20/3) and Peçanha (22/0) return.

 Sporting got disqualified in the Europa League by Atletico with 2 draws, but with the 2 away goals by the Spaniards in Portugal, they got the ticket to the next round. So, they dedicate themselves in the Liga and in their efforts to take 4th place which leads to Europe. They count 3 consecutive wins with 10 goals scored, all joined by many good chances to score more. João Moutinho (22/3), Veloso (19/2) are out. Djalo (11/3) is in and probably Carriço (20/1) too.

Selection: Quite the absences here for Sporting, who have not that big a depth in their bench in order for their absentees to be replaced as should... Especially Moutinho and Veloso. On the other hand, Maritimo is not that strong on the island as were in previous years  and i am thinking of moving due to tradition which tells me that 9 out of their latest 10 clashes ended with 2-3goals scored. So, 2-3 goals scored will be my pick.