Sporting potential XI with Rio Ave

The team that played in Moreira de Conejos should not undergo any changes. Coates, Pedro Gonçalves, Nuno Santos, Moreta and Jenny Catamo return. Diomande and Esgayo can be surprises

A renewed lion…in the form of a band. After the clash with Young Boys in midweek, which sealed qualification to the last 16 of the Europa League, Ruben Amorim must reclaim what has been his most used form in recent weeks in the main domestic competition. Moreover, it seems that the bet on the team that won in the last round in Moreira de Conejos should stand. In all.

But given the European confrontation with the Swiss, a “revolution” is expected to occur with the entry of… five players. If Adan is to have a confirmed place in the Lions' goal, the back three must once again rely on captain Coates who, remember, was resting with Young Boys. Eduardo Quaresma (right) and Gonzalo Inacio (left) will be experienced regulars for the loyal Uruguayans.

Moving to the midfield there are a lot of changes. As for the rest, only Hjulmand, indisputably, must maintain his position. This time, unlike the duel with the Swiss, Morita will be at his side instead of Daniel Bragança. On the wings, after the stressful management of Nuno Santos and Gini Catamo, both should regain their place as regular starters at the expense of Ricardo Esgayo and Matthews Reis.

In the attacking trio, Ruben Amorim will not give up the asset that gave the greatest guarantees to the Lions…the scorer. With Giocris in the plan of reference – and unopposed as Paulinho continues to recover from injury and is ruled out of this match – plus Pedro Gonçalves (playing just 27 minutes for Young Boys) and Trincao who is having one of the best moments in the Leonin team as evidenced by the five goals (and four Assists) in the last nine matches.

The team seems, at the moment, suitable for the challenges of the championship, although due to the specificity of the field that usually presents poor weather conditions, some changes may arise. In this context, in turn, there are two names looking for an opportunity in the XI: we are talking about Diomande, a more physical defender and stronger in aerial duels than Eduardo Quaresma, or Ricardo Esgayo, more stable and combative. By Jenny Katamu.