Sporting Club Triumphs Over Glasgow City in Europa Cup Clash

Sporting Club concluded Glasgow City’s Europa Cup campaign in Lisbon with a remarkable performance, scoring two pivotal goals during extra time.

The match began with an early advantage for the visitors, as Nicole Kozlova headed Glasgow City into the lead late in the first half, establishing a 2-1 aggregate score.

However, Telma Encarnacao’s intelligent finish in the second half pushed the game into extra time. Encarnacao added another goal during this period, followed by Carla Armengol, securing a place in the quarter-finals against either Hammarby or Ajax.

From the outset, the Portuguese side displayed tenacity, forcing City goalkeeper Lee Gibson to work hard in the opening minutes. Despite being under pressure, the SWPL leaders managed to establish their rhythm, taking their opponents by surprise just before halftime.

A well-placed free-kick from Lisa Evans was flicked on by Kimberley Smit, allowing Kozlova to capitalize from close range. The Ukraine international remained a threat, and City started the second half with promising attempts from Linda Motlhalo.

Yet, Sporting Club regained control as they sought an equalizer. Their breakthrough came from a direct ball over the top, allowing Telma to expertly navigate past Gibson with a swift first-time strike.

In a dramatic finish, Telma nearly scored again with a powerful free-kick that struck the post, with the rebound narrowly missing the target. Claudia Neto also came close as Glasgow City fought to maintain their lead.

As the game progressed, an Ashley Barron header soared over the goal, but Sporting’s attacking momentum carried them into extra time. It was fitting that Telma found the net again by darting between the visiting center-backs to nod the ball home.

Shortly after the break in extra time, Armengol secured the victory with a deft finish over Gibson, sealing Glasgow City’s fate.

In reflection, Glasgow City head coach Leanne Ross stated, “I don’t think we created enough when we had the ball, but I thought we defended well for long spells. I’m incredibly proud of the effort from every single player in the squad and what we’ve achieved on this European journey. We’ll use this as motivation for the rest of the season. This is where we want to be, so we need to ensure we continue performing well in the domestic league.”