Sporting CP kick off their 2026/27 pre-season campaign on Tuesday with a clash against Celtic at Estádio Algarve at 5:30pm. The Leões return to action as they look to fine-tune their squad ahead of the new domestic campaign.

What’s at stake against the Bhoys?

Celtic, managed by Martin O’Neill, arrived in Portugal last week for pre-season training. The Scottish side face Sporting CP in their first test, with the match serving as a warm-up before their next fixtures: Middlesbrough on July 18 and AC Milan on July 25, both at Celtic Park. The Leões, meanwhile, are still searching for form after a sluggish pre-season last year — and they sit 9th in the Primeira Liga with zero points and zero goals scored so far.

Estádio Algarve provides the perfect backdrop for the friendly. Celtic, playing on home time (5:30pm in Portugal), will use the game to trial systems before their competitive return. For Sporting, it’s a chance to blood youngsters and integrate new signings still waiting for their first official minutes.

How to watch Sporting CP vs Celtic live

The match streams exclusively on CelticPlayer for subscribers in the UK, Ireland, and select regions. Coverage starts at 5:15pm with pre-match build-up, giving fans time to log in and navigate the new platform. Subscribers also get behind-the-scenes access, exclusive interviews, and full-season live domestic matches.

Fans in Portugal or outside CelticPlayer’s reach won’t see the game locally. Instead, they can follow live updates via Sporting CP’s official social channels or Portuguese outlets like A Bola and O Jogo.

What’s next for the Leões?

After facing Celtic, Sporting CP return to training with a focus on closing pre-season gaps. Their first official fixture looms on January 17, 2027, against league leaders Estrela — a match that could define their European ambitions. Until then, the side — under a yet-to-be-named manager — must shore up defensive frailties spotted in early training sessions.

Fans are also eyeing last-minute signings after the Leões failed to lift a trophy last season for the first time in five years. Pre-season is the proving ground before the real pressure of competitive football returns.