Flávio is the 'darling,' but many are already enchanting (Sporting's players)

ALTIMIRA — He might not be the flashiest new signing, but his tactical intelligence stands out. He frequently drops deep between the center-backs during the build-up phase and rarely misplaces a pass or loses possession. The way he scored the second goal, with a crisp left-footed shot, showcased remarkable composure.

SILAS ANDERSEN — Another display of quality. Very assertive, constantly demanding the ball and showing no fear in pushing forward towards the opposition's box. He rose authoritatively to meet the ball, heading it beautifully into the far post for Sporting's third goal. He promises a lot and adds a vibrant color to Sporting's new tactical setup, a picture that might be aesthetically different from previous ones but certainly makes an impact.

DOUMBIA — In his debut, he picked up the ball inside the box, beat his marker, and unleashed a missile to open the scoring. He combines the physique of a tank with the lightness of a dancer in how he covers ground. On Sunday, he admitted he needs to improve in several aspects, but is that truly the case? For now, he fully justifies the investment made by the club to bring him to Alvalade, not just financially but also in convincing the Italian.

ZALAZAR — He cost 30 million euros and seems to have the number three as a lucky charm. He had three days of training, needed three minutes on the field to burst down the right, win a penalty, and convert it. To cap it off, he delivered a masterful pass to Geny for the sixth goal. He inherited Trincão's number 17 shirt, and the difference to the Portuguese international, in this debut, was practically nil. The responsibility of being a marquee signing doesn't weigh on him, as he justified the investment in his first showing.

JESSE DERRY — He kept the left flank operating at full throttle, displaying an irreverence that promises to win over the Alvalade stands. He already shows technical skills far above average.

FLÁVIO GONÇALVES — The new darling of Sporting fans. He's another winger to emerge from the prestigious green and white Academy, although he started the match in the number ten position. The way he took the free-kick that led to the third goal against the Alsatians attests to his class. He has a particular trait: he almost always decides on the first touch. He could be more measured in certain plays, but the truth is that audacity often pays off, as it surprises opponents.

EDUARDO FELICÍSSIMO — In 2024/25, during a period when the Lions seemed to have an infirmary at Alcochete, he was introduced to the first team and struggled in some plays. Doubts arose about whether he would perform better as a defensive midfielder or a center-back. However, based on the Algarve tests — he played 180 minutes in the open matches — it's in central defense where he feels most at home.

RAFAEL NEL — He never gives up on a play, and thanks to this intensity, he allows the Lions to defend much higher up the pitch. Suárez is arriving, Ioannidis is back among the goals, but the young forward remains unfazed. He performs his task with distinction and holds his place in the team. The question remains: would it be better to loan him out to gain experience or keep him in the squad as a valid option for a long and demanding season?

GROMBAHI — Now separated from his friend Quenda, he showed restlessness and was an active participant in the Lions' rout.

JOÃO VIRGÍNIA — He could have asked Rui Borges for the second half off, as he was only called upon once for a more demanding intervention, saving a shot from Rayane Messi. In the first half, his positioning wasn't always orthodox, but he proved effective. That's what's expected of a goalkeeper, so often exposed to the eye of the storm without any responsibility.

VAGIANNIDIS — The Greek used his vacation to clear his memory cache and erase the bad moments of the previous season. It's not hard to conclude that he delivered his best performance in the green and white striped shirt. Even if it was in a friendly against a disorganized Strasbourg, no one can take away his merit.

EDUARDO QUARESMA — The Alsatians only pressed in the initial stage, and that's when he took command, acting as the leader — albeit temporary — of the defensive axis.

RICARDO MANGAS — He was set to leave, but he's staying, and the reason is clear. He's the fittest player, very active on the left flank, although he still shows some defensive shortcomings. To his detriment, he has Maxi ahead of him in the left-wing hierarchy, who continues to be Super, like the famous ice cream that lives in the taste memory of several generations.

GENY CATAMO — A quiet first half until he evaded his marker and found space to launch another dangerous attack. He also scored a goal with his trademark move: drifting in from the right, ball glued to his left foot, cutting inside until unleashing an accurate shot to the far post.

MAXI ARAÚJO — He was the positive note in a Uruguay team that disappointed at the World Cup and once again proved his undeniable interplanetary class. He only played the final half-hour, more than enough time to score and provide an assist. Whether playing further forward or deeper, his grit and commitment are always there.

IOANNIDIS — He hadn't tasted a goal in the calendar year 2026, partly due to the Greek tragedy he experienced with his injury. He broke the jinx with his weaker right foot. He promises to give Luis Suárez a run for his money and create healthy headaches for Rui Borges when choosing the striker. It will be a headache that the coach will quickly overcome.

FAYE — He came on in the final minutes and was practically uninvolved in the game, a note that is becoming a constant in his performances.