Sporting CP fight back to beat Galatasaray in Champions League

Sporting CP recovered from an early setback to defeat Galatasaray 3-1 at Estadio Jose Alvalade and begin their UEFA Champions League league-phase campaign with victory.

The Portuguese side fell behind inside the opening six minutes after Goncalo Inacio put the ball into his own net, giving Galatasaray an ideal start in Lisbon. Sporting responded before half-time, however, with Geny Catamo restoring parity in the 27th minute.

After the interval, Sporting took control of the contest and turned the draw into a convincing win. Luis Suarez completed the turnaround from the penalty spot in the 57th minute before Rodrigo Zalazar added a third six minutes later.

Galatasaray were unable to find a response during the final half-hour, despite their attempts to reduce the deficit. Sporting remained organised and protected their advantage until the final whistle to secure all three points.

The result marked a significant recovery for Sporting, who had been forced to chase the game almost immediately after Galatasaray’s opening goal. Goncalo Inacio’s own goal gave the visitors the lead before the Portuguese team had established a foothold in the match, but Sporting gradually grew into the contest.

Their equaliser changed the momentum before the break. Geny Catamo’s goal ensured Sporting did not go into half-time behind and gave them a platform from which to build after the restart.

The hosts made that pressure count in the second half. Luis Suarez’s penalty put Sporting in front for the first time, and Rodrigo Zalazar’s goal six minutes later created the decisive gap. Galatasaray then had the task of scoring twice to salvage a result, but Sporting held firm.

The 3-1 scoreline completed Sporting’s comeback and delivered their first European success of the campaign. Galatasaray, meanwhile, could not maintain the advantage created by their fast start.

Sporting now begin the league phase with a win after overturning a 1-0 deficit, while Galatasaray leave Estadio Jose Alvalade without a point.