Who wins the Portuguese Cup 2017/2018?
The Portuguese cup’s official name is Taça de Portugal. Like most cup finals, the final is played in a neutral ground called Estádio Nacional which is simply a Portuguese version of the Wembley. Unlike other cups it gives both the winner and the runners up the chance to play in Europa League if they haven’t qualified for any UEFA competition.
S.L. Benfica:
Benfica have been back to their very best after some troublesome seasons. Last season was a double winning campaign for them. Now they have a stable squad with the perfect balance of experience and youth. They have leaders like Jonas, Luisão, and Konstantinos Mitroglou. And exciting raw talents like Victor Lindelöf, Nélson Semedo and Alejandro Grimaldo. They also have the man who has only been outscored by Lionel Messi in the race for European Golden Shoe last season in Bas Dost. So if they can play their game, no Portuguese team will be even close to challenge them.
FC Porto:
After a long time FC Porto’s dominance in Portugal has ended. But this may be more like a blip in form, rather than a fall from grace. As they still have enough talent to get back to their rightful place. They have Yacine Brahimi, Danilo Pereira André Silva and countless other players who are targeted every summer. In the summer’s transfer window Porto must keep their main squad and strengthen their depth. And if they are capable to do so, the Portuguese cup is in their reach.
Sporting Clube de Portugal:
Sporting CP is famous for having one of the best youth systems in the world. Two of the greatest footballers ever Luís Figo and Cristiano Ronaldo were created by Sporting. They may not have as much great players to come from the youth but still their best player were created by themselves. William Carvalho, Rui Patrício and Adrien Silva are their best players. And they are homemade. They are managed by former Benfica boss Jorge Jesus. He has a knack for winning the Portuguese cup as he has won it several times with benfica. So with a bit of recruitment and a pinch of luck, Sporting has a Portuguese cup winning recipe.