Jorge Jesus ahead of Saturday's Portuguese Cup derby

While recent results and home turf will both play to Jorge Jesus' advantage tomorrow night when his side host Benfica in the fourth round of the Portuguese Cup, the Sporting boss sees form on the day as the decisive factor in the final result. “We have won both games against Benfica, so naturally we are confident, but what matters in a derby is how the teams play on the day. The league table or the past don't make that much difference. It will be a passionate game and I hope that everybody shows the right kind of respect on the pitch", explained Jesus in his usual pre-match press conference.

Following the same logic, the Alvalade boss was keen to brush aside the assertion of a favourite to clinch the result: "I don't think we can say there is a favourite, because both teams have very similar objectives. It is the moment that makes the difference when it comes down to it. Obviously playing in front of our fans, on our pitch, is more attractive for us than playing in the Luz, but the players still have to respond. This is a Sporting-Benfica derby in a knock-out competition which has to be decided tomorrow, so the game takes on other characteristics. The lads have been working as usual, although some of them, Bryan and Slimani for example, are a bit touch and go. Tomorrow I will be able to take a look at them and make a decision, but we are all ready for just another match."

Asked if beating his former employer is that extra bit special compared to any other match, Jesus played it cool: "I like beating every team. I am the Sporting coach and for me every opponent is special, because this is my team. Sometimes one game or another leaves more of a mark, but not because of the opponent."

The Portuguese Cup 4th round between Sporting and Benfica will kick off at 20h00 on Saturday the 21st of November, in Estádio José Alvalade.