Sporting Lisbon aims to achieve their third consecutive Primeira Liga win as they visit Vila do Conde to compete against Rio Ave this weekend in the first match of matchday four. Currently, the Lions are positioned second in the Portuguese league standings, having accumulated seven points from their first three matches of the 2026-27 season. In contrast, Rio Ave sits in 10th place with three points from a possible nine. As the season progresses, Sporting's performances have improved, though concerns remain about their defensive vulnerabilities. Coach Rui Borges's side has yet to secure a clean sheet in their three league games so far. Last weekend, Sporting delivered their most convincing performance yet, winning 3-1 against Alverca at Estadio Jose Alvalade. Despite this, similar to their earlier 2-2 draw with Estrela Amadora and a narrow 3-2 victory over Vitoria de Guimaraes, the Lions displayed defensive lapses, particularly in the final moments after establishing significant leads. Sporting was in control at 3-0 by the 60th minute, thanks to goals from Maximiliano Araujo, an own goal by Matheus Mendes, and a strike from Luis Suarez. However, a late goal from Figueiredo for Alverca was not enough to spark a comeback. While two wins from three matches is a decent start, defending champions Porto lead the table with two more points. This puts pressure on the Lions to elevate their performance to avoid falling further behind, especially after last season's title loss by a six-point margin. On a positive note, Sporting boasts a strong away record, having not lost a league match on the road in nearly two years. However, they have only secured two victories in their last six away games, with four draws. On the other hand, Rio Ave will be optimistic about their chances after achieving their first win of the season with a 2-0 triumph over Estoril Praia at Estadio Antonio Coimbra da Mota last weekend.