Porto vs Sporting CP Prediction 09.02.2026 | Primeira Liga

Porto head into this mouth-watering showdown fully aware that their domestic supremacy is about to face its sternest examination yet, despite sitting comfortably atop the Primeira Liga standings with an outstanding 55 points from a possible 60.

There is little debate that the Dragons have been nothing short of a juggernaut this season, but the psychological impact of their recent 2-1 capitulation away at Casa Pia — their first league loss of the campaign — cannot be ignored. That setback has raised legitimate questions over whether the relentless pressure of the title race is finally beginning to take its toll.

Even so, the Estadio do Dragao continues to stand as one of the division’s most unforgiving venues. Porto have dropped points there just once all season and conceded a mere two goals in the process, underlining just how close to untouchable they have been in front of their passionate home support.

However, Italian tactician Francesco Farioli will be forced to navigate this crucial encounter without several key figures. Nehuen Perez, Seko Fofana, and experienced striker Luuk de Jong are all unavailable, while winger William Gomes is suspended and will miss the highly anticipated clash with Sporting.

Meanwhile, Sporting CP head north for a daunting assignment fully aware that anything less than victory could deal a serious blow to their Primeira Liga title ambitions. That said, the reigning champions arrive in buoyant form, suggesting they are more than ready for the challenge that awaits.

Under the astute guidance of Rui Borges, the Lions have navigated the post-Amorim transition with remarkable success, evolving into a ruthless attacking force. Sporting have plundered a league-high 54 goals this season, a tally that includes a thrilling 2-1 victory over Nacional in their most recent outing.

While the Dragons pride themselves on defensive solidity, Sporting’s formidable away-day mentality — remaining unbeaten on their league travels this season (W8, D2) — will give the Lisbon faithful genuine belief that the four-point gap at the summit can be overturned.

However, Borges faces a significant tactical headache ahead of this clash, as highly rated winger Geovany Quenda is ruled out with a metatarsal fracture, while Greek centre-forward Fotis Ioannidis is also unavailable due to a knee issue.