Sporting CP were forced to settle for a 2-2 stalemate away at Estrela da Amadora, surrendering a commanding two-goal cushion in their Portuguese Primeira Liga season opener.

The "Lions" appeared to be cruising at Reboleira after establishing a 2-0 lead through Uruguayan midfielder Rodrigo Zalazar in the 46th minute and Greek forward Fotis Ioannidis on the 59-minute mark. Yet, the hosts refused to buckle, mounting a spirited fightback as Leandro Antonetti reduced the deficit in the 72nd minute before Beni Souza struck a dramatic 84th-minute equaliser.

With four matches played in the opening round, Sporting and Estrela da Amadora find themselves level on one point alongside Estoril and Famalicao in the early standings.

The Lisbon giants will look to find their winning form on home soil in their next outing against Vitoria de Guimaraes, who suffered a home defeat to Arouca. Elsewhere, Estrela da Amadora face a trip to Alverca.

L. Antonetti

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