The Portuguese Cup holders, Sporting CP, face a demanding away trip as they take on Santa Clara in the Last 16 of the competition, with the match broadcast live on beIN SPORTS.

If Sporting CP are to successfully defend their Taça de Portugal title this season, they will need to overcome not only tough opposition, but also significant travel demands. Thursday’s match takes place at fellow top-flight side Santa Clara, based in the Azores, an Atlantic Ocean archipelago located around two hours by air from Lisbon. This makes Santa Clara the most westerly club in European football.

Sporting CP Face Key Test Away from Home

A victory in Thursday’s encounter would maintain what has been a steady season so far for Sporting CP. The club is also defending its Liga Portugal crown, although the title race remains competitive with FC Porto currently leading the standings.

This Portuguese Cup clash is expected to carry the same intensity as a league fixture, with Santa Clara sitting 12th in the table after earning promotion last season. Sporting CP will, however, draw confidence from a 2-1 win over Santa Clara in November, which also took place in the Azores.

Life After Gyökeres and New Attacking Focus for Sporting

One of the biggest challenges for Sporting CP this season has been adapting to life without Swedish striker Viktor Gyökeres. Despite his move to Arsenal for approximately $63 million, his impact during his final season at Sporting was immense, scoring 54 goals in 52 matches.

With Gyökeres gone, Colombian striker Luis Suárez has become the focal point of the attack as Sporting look to continue their cup defense.

Match details:

• Thursday, December 18 – 1:40 PM ET
• Santa Clara vs Sporting CP – LIVE on beIN SPORTS