GOLAZONEWSSporting defeat Marítimo 2-1 in Allianz Cup
- Pedro Lima scored a brace to lead Sporting past Marítimo.
- Butzke netted a late goal for Marítimo in the 90th minute.
- Manager Rui Borges praised the performance of his fringe players.
Sporting secured a 2-1 victory over Marítimo in the Allianz Cup quarter-finals. Brazilian midfielder Pedro Lima proved decisive, scoring both goals for the home side, including an opening header following a Derry corner kick.
Marítimo reduced the deficit in the 90th minute through a Butzke header, but Sporting held on to progress. The atmosphere at Alvalade was mixed, with supporters offering both applause and whistles at the conclusion of the match.
Sporting manager Rui Borges expressed satisfaction with his less-utilized players and pledged to continue working hard in response to fan criticism. Midfielder Samuel Justo made his first-team debut during the fixture. Marítimo coach Van der Gaag noted that he was pleased with his team's attitude despite the elimination.