Sporting's fine-tuning strikes another high note in France

As their pre-season programme approaches its end, R. Sporting headed to the north-eastern French city of Nancy to continue their fine-tuning ahead of the start of the LaLiga Santander campaign. Sporting's involvement in the LaLiga World project saw them travel to neighbouring France to test themselves against Ligue 1 new boys AS Nancy, with the Rojiblancos head coach Abelardo Fernandez voicing his enthusiasm for the initiative: "It's marvellous to be able to come here and promote the club's image and the LaLiga brand."

Nancy made the most of the occasion to stage their official unveiling ahead of the new Ligue 1 season, which kicks off next weekend. The French side's Uruguayan coach, Pablo Correa, remarked that, "It's always good to get the chance to pit your wits against sides that play a different style of football." Meanwhile, Sporting midfielder Nacho Cases shared his impressions about the pedigree of the hosts and the French top flight in general, stating that, "it's a very strong, competitive league, that's full of internationals and some very fine African players."

As for the game itself, the supporters who took their places inside the Stade Marcel Picot were treated to a gripping, high-tempo encounter. Alongside the home faithful, many France-based Sporting fans flocked to Nancy to catch their team in action, with the LaLiga World initiative offering them the opportunity to see their heroes at close quarters.