As Sporting CP and Bologna prepare for their upcoming Champions League encounter, both sides are grappling with significant player absences that could shape the outcome of the match.
Sporting’s manager is unlikely to repeat the surprising decision to bench top scorer Viktor Gyokeres, as he did in their recent defeat against Leipzig. Gyokeres, who came on as a substitute and still managed to find the net, is expected to start this crucial fixture.
However, the Portuguese side will be without several key players. Pedro Goncalves, a vital component of Sporting’s attack, remains sidelined due to a muscle injury. He joins a growing list of unavailable players, including Jerry St Juste, Eduardo Quaresma, and Nuno Santos.
Sporting’s recent signing, Rui Silva, will not feature in the match as he is not registered for European competition. As a result, Franco Israel is set to take his place between the posts.
Bologna, too, faces its share of selection headaches. Left-back Charalampos Lykogiannis, who has been in fine form with two assists in recent Serie A matches, is doubtful after being substituted late in Bologna’s draw against Empoli.
The Italian side will definitely be without Riccardo Orsolini, who suffered a hamstring injury during their victory over Dortmund last week. Additionally, Remo Freuler is suspended due to accumulating yellow cards, while fellow midfielder Michel Aebischer is questionable with a hamstring concern.
Sporting: Israel; Fresneda, Diomande, Goncalo Inacio, Quenda; Catamo, Morita, Hjulmand, Araujo; Trincao, Gyokeres
Bologna: Skorupski; Holm, Beukema, Lucumi, Juan Miranda; Odgaard, Pobega; Castro, Ferguson, Ndoye; Dallinga
