Sporting Portugal are facing a major setback ahead of their Portuguese Cup final clash with Benfica, as defender Ousmane Diomandé appears poised to miss out due to injury.
The Ivorian centre-back has been struggling with a knee problem sustained during his last outing a week ago.
He was forced off the pitch early in that match, and his recovery has not progressed quickly enough for him to return in time for Sunday’s crucial fixture.
On Friday, May 23, just two days before the highly anticipated derby, Diomandé was absent from training once again—further casting doubt over his availability.
His potential absence is a significant blow to Sporting’s preparations, with the team now expected to enter the final without one of their key defensive figures.
Diomandé has played an integral role throughout the campaign, and missing what could be the 41st and final match of his season will be a bitter disappointment.
The derby promises to be a thrilling conclusion to the Portuguese football season.
After months of league action, the final curtain falls with a cup final between the country’s two biggest rivals—Sporting Portugal and Benfica.
The match carries not just the weight of a trophy, but also the desire to settle scores after a series of tight contests this season.
This will be the fourth meeting between the two sides in the 2024–2025 campaign.
Sporting edged the first encounter 1-0, but Benfica responded by claiming the League Cup in a dramatic penalty shootout, winning 7-6 after a 1-1 draw in regular time.
The most recent league encounter also ended in a stalemate, leaving the honours evenly split.
Now, the Portuguese Cup final will serve as the ultimate decider in what has been a fiercely contested rivalry.
But for Sporting, the likely absence of Diomandé is a major complication.
Known for his strength, positioning, and composure under pressure, the 20-year-old has emerged as one of the standout defenders in the Primeira Liga.
His withdrawal, though not officially confirmed, appears inevitable given his continued absence from training and lingering fitness concerns.
As both sides prepare for what promises to be a heated and emotional battle, Sporting will have to adapt quickly in Diomandé’s absence if they are to lift the cup and end their season on a high.
