The first team trained in the Algarve on Tuesday before their first European encounter

The Sporting CP first team are set for their first fixture of the season this Thursday, when they meet Aberdeen FC in the UEFA Europa League's Third Qualifying Round. The game is set for 8pm local time at the Estádio José Alvalade, and is of vital importance as the squad look to progress to the competition proper.

To prepare for the encounter with the Scottish side, the group trained on Tuesday in Lagos in the Algarve, where they have been based over the past few days following the postponement of their first Primeira Liga game against Gil Vicente.

An intense, demanding session was run by the coaching staff, putting the players through their paces with fitness and tactical work.

Wednesday's training session will be open to the media for the first 15 minutes, and at 7pm a press conference will be held at the Artur Agostinho auditorium of the Estádio José Alvalade.