Basketball: Sportiva draws with Benfica in the league final

On Wednesday afternoon, Uniao Sportiva tied in the Women's Basketball League final (55-56). After having to win to avoid victory for the Eagles, the Azzurri team achieved a remarkable turnaround and postponed making decisions until Sunday.

However, the second match in the final seemed destined for Eugenio Rodriguez's men. In the first and second quarters, the home team increased its lead by eight points (19-10 and 14-15), which pleased more than a thousand fans.

However, upon his return from the dressing room, Sportiva looked rejuvenated, capitalizing on successive losses of possession and thwarting Benfica's attacks. Thus, in the run-up to the decisive finish, Ricardo Botello's team lost 41-40 (8-15) and had the upper hand in the match.

As such, they continued to grow, until they led by six points. However, when it came to decisions, Rafaela Montero, Marta Martins, Isabella Jordaens and Cuper spurred Benfica, taking the tie to 52 points. As such, the partial score forced 11-12 extra time.

At this stage, victory fell into the hands of those who committed the least mistakes. União Sportiva resisted the crowd pressure and finally won 55-56 (3-4).

It is important to highlight the suffering in the final seconds, with Cooper and Rafaela Montero shooting towards the basket, which sparked despair in the stands.

In terms of statistics, Luana Serrano was the best on the court, as she recorded 16 points, three rebounds, two assists and three steals. At the same time, Eva Carigosa (nine points, eight rebounds, two assists) was also decisive in the score.

On the other hand, Rafaela Monteiro (15 points and nine rebounds) and Isabella Jordan (nine points and 13 rebounds) were the most miserable among the hosts.

The title match is now scheduled to take place on Sunday, at 3pm in mainland Portugal. Benfica is seeking to win the third championship, while Uniao Sportiva is looking forward to the fourth title. Everything you have to decide in Ponta Delgada.