Sporting fall to first domestic defeat of the season at the hands of União

24 shots against just four. 13 corners against none. 74% possession. Despite one of Sporting's best showings on paper this season, Jorge Jesus' side were unable to overcome a stubborn União da Madeira this Sunday and slipped to a first Liga NOS defeat of the season after an impressive run of 14 games.

The first minute was a reflection of the rest of the evening, with Sporting holding down possession in the opposition half. Gelson managed to find space in the area, but the youngster's shot ended up high of the mark. Cadiz tried a low drive in the 7th minute, but it was little more than an odd foray forward in what was an encounter completely dominated by the team from Alvalade. Another three golden opportunities game before the break: firstly through Jefferson from a free-kick that pulled a save out of the in-form André Moreira, followed by a Slimani header after Adrien battled back possession and finally from Montero after the Colombian latched on to a cross from Gelson Martins.

The second-half was more of the same, with Sporting bossing proceedings while União bunkered down and seemed happy to wait for the odd counter-attack. Montero came painfully close with a shot across the face of goal in the 48th minute and Bryan Ruiz headed over seven minutes later, before Paulo Oliveira also saw a header finish up just wide of the post in the 58th minute.

Despite the completely one-way action, União took the lead in the 69th minute, when Paulinho found Danilo Dias at the back post with the enviable task of heading in past a stranded Rui Patrício. Sporting cranked up the pressure in response, but a clinical touch in front goal was missing and neither Slimani or Montero were unable to capitalise on their chances against a seemingly unbeatable André Moreira in the União goal.

The result keeps Sporting in first place with 35 points, with FC Porto hosting Académia later this evening.

Jorge Jesus on this Sunday's trip to Madeira

Sporting will face União in Madeira this Sunday, on Liga NOS matchday 14, with Jorge Jesus' side on the verge of topping the table going into the Christmas break.

“The year hasn't finished yet. We are in first because of our quality and the truth is that we are having a really good start to the season, which gives us confidence. When I arrived here it was with the goal of being where we are now, but maybe not as good as we are now. I wasn't sure we would be so far ahead and this is a new experience for the team. What I want now is for the team to show the capacity to defend first place, affirmed Jorge Jesus in his pre-match press conference.

Before catching the short flight to Madeira, the Alvalade boss highlighted the difficulties of taking on União: "Every game in Madeira, against whoever, is difficult. União showed that in their last game against our rival, as well as with Braga. They will be organised in defence and we will have to find a way to create space. It won't be easily. We feel good about what we did in the Cup and if we play like we did against Braga it will make things much easier in Braga.

Asked if he is expecting the return of Carrillo for Christmas, Jorge Jesus instead preferred to focus on a different sector of his squad: "Carrillo? This is Christmas time, but I don't think Santa will give me that. Let's see what he does give me. A coach is never 100% happy and that is how I am as well. If I could have another player, then maybe it would be in defence."

Vasco Santos named for Liga NOS matchday 14

Vasco Santos, 39, from the Porto Football Association, has been named for Sporting's trop to Madeira to take on União, on Liga NOS matchday 14.

Sérgio Jesus and Bruno Trindade will act as linesmen.

U. Madeira-Sporting will kick off at 18h15 on Sunday, in Estádio da Madeira (Funchal).

Filipe Chaby

Sporting Clube de Portugal, Futebol, SAD has reached an agreement with Clube de Futebol União da Madeira SAD for the loan of the player Filipe Chaby until the end of the current season.

Sporting SAD wishes Filipe Chaby the best of personal and professional success.