Two late strikes keep Boro’s Euro hopes alive

Middlesbrough 2 Sporting 3

Sporting Lisbon bore all the hallmarks of potential champions as they strode into a 3-0 lead with goals from Alexandre Pedro Barbosa (49), Liedson (53) and Rodolph Douala (65).

But McClaren’s men showed their mettle and spirit by clawing their way back into the tie, although they will have to win by two clear goals in the return leg if they are to progress.