Liga Sagres: Olhanense 3 Braga 4

Braga claimed a thrilling 4-3 Liga Sagres win over Olhanense on Monday, after the hosts threw away at 2-0 lead at half-time.

Braga needed a win on their travels to keep in touch with the top two and capitalise on third-placed Sporting Lisbon’s 1-1 draw with Academica, but were behind after just five minutes when Olhanense midfielder Caue capitalised on some indecisive defending to score past Quim.

Olhanense had a handful of chances to extend their lead, and finally took one on 37 minutes when Cameroon striker Jean Paul Yontcha rounded Quim to finish well from a rapidly narrowing angle.

Braga coach Leonardo Jardim responded to the 2-0 deficit at half-time by withdrawing Paulo Cesar and Marcio Mossoro for Helder Barbosa and Carlao, and the decision seemed to pay off when his side pulled one back on 53 minutes.

It came from the head of Douglao from a corner, with Olhanense goalkeeper Fabiano’s attempt at saving the shot questionable.

Fabiano’s efforts were again found wanting when Braga made it 2-2 on 64 minutes, with Nigerian defender Elderson taking his chance to score from another corner.

An own-goal from veteran centre-back Mauricio gave Braga the lead on 70 minutes, and the away side made it 4-2 just a minute after that when Lima struck on the break.

The drama did not end there, however, with Caue getting his second just three minutes later after capitalising on an errant backpass from the Braga defence.

Fabiano’s poor match was made complete when he was sent off for handling outside the area on 85 minutes, meaning – with Olhanense having used all their substitutes – two-goal hero Caue had to don the gloves.

He kept Lima’s late free-kick out but Olhanense could not find an equalising goal, ensuring they stay 10th on the Liga Sagres table.

Braga, meanwhile, stay fourth but move to with two points of Sporting in third.