Portuguese League: Patricio, Sporting Beat Benfica 1-0 in Lisbon Derby

Sporting beat Benfica 1-0 in the Lisbon derby of the Portuguese League.

The result moves the Lions up to fourth place in the league and leaves the Eagles four points back and that much farther from the title.

The game was divided in the first few minutes. But Sporting striker Ricky van Wofswinekl scored a penalty after 18 minutes and bewildered Benfica, who never managed to find ways for a goal to get past Portuguese International goalkeeper Rui Patricio.

Sporting, thereafter, dominated the rest of the game.

In the second half, Sporting saw the most success and scoring opportunities. Benfica stopper Arthur—who had decisive interventions—and Wolfswinkel—who failed to score twice while isolated one-on-one—were primarily reasons for the result at 1-0.

In the match Dutch midfielder Schaars and Izmailov (shot on the bar) could have scored for Sporting. 

While Benfica had only one blatant opportunity for Maxi Pereira, who Sporting defender Insúa saved practically on the line.

A big win for the Alvalade residents, who showed a little superiority and confidence after advancing in the semifinals of the Europa League, passed Metalist and now onto face Athletic Bilbao.

FC Porto is delighted with the result and will now see Benfica at four points from them in the Portuguese league.

Former Sporting player and Athletic Director Sa Pinto rejoiced with the win and expressed his happiness with the three points.

When all was said and done, Sporting ruled Lisbon for the night but still have pivotal matches against Porto and Braga to close out the season.