Portuguese league set for all-out final to outclass 'Clasico'

The football world is locked in for Sunday's 'El Clasico' between Barcelona and Real Madrid, as four points separate the two sides with four games to go. A win from the Catalans would put them seven points ahead, leaving the Merengues with faint chances of threatening a fightback in the title fight.

The stakes are certainly high heading into the clash at the Montjuic, but they are not nearly as close to the ones in the neighbouring country. With two games to conclude the league, the Portuguese league is set for an all-out final between Benfica and Sporting Lisbon on Saturday.

Sitting at the top of the standings with 78 points each, Saturday's crunch will be decisive for the two sides' title fortunes this term. Sporting (+59) are leaders on goals scored, but that may be enough to grant them glory, with Bruno Lage's side (+56) finding themselves narrowly behind.

Should the teams finish level on points, head-to-head matches this term would be used as tie-breakers. In that sense, the Lions have a slight advantage. Having 1-0 at home earlier this season, a draw at Da Luz and a victory on the final matchday would be enough for Sporting to become champions.

However, Benfica could benefit from the second tie-breaker criterion (greater goal difference in head-to-head matches in the event of a draw on points) to wrap up the title already on Saturday. This would only happen if the Eagles managed to win by two goals or more.

Should the 33rd and penultimate matchday not be enough to determine a winner, the title party would be postponed to the final matchday on May 10-11. Rui Borges' men are away at fifth-placed Vitoria Guimaraes, while Benfica pay a visit to Sporting Braga.

Possible scenarios of Benfica vs Sporting Lisbon:

- If Benfica win by one goal, the title will be decided on the final matchday (Benfica would need to draw or even lose if Sporting do not win).

- If Benfica win by two goals or more, they will be crowned champions.

- If there's a draw, the title will be decided on the final matchday (Sporting Lisbon would become champions on the last matchday with a win, and it would be enough for them to do the same as Benfica).

- If Sporting Lisbon win, they will be crowned champions.