Sporting CP survived a dramatic Taça de Portugal clash away to Santa Clara, with a chaotic contest 3–2 to secure their place in the quarter-finals.
The Portuguese champions took the lead early when Simões struck in the 12th minute but Santa Clara responded well and restored parity through Lucas Soares midway through the first half. The match appeared to be heading for a surprise late on as Gabriel Silva put the hosts ahead in the 86th minute, sending the home crowd into celebration.
The closing stages, however, completely shifted the momentum. From the 89th minute onward, Santa Clara were reduced to eight men after three players were sent off, leaving them unable to withstand Sporting’s pressure.
Georgian midfielder Giorgi Kochorashvili started the match on the bench and was introduced in the 76th minute, becoming part of Sporting’s late push.
