An early strike from Luis Suárez looked set to secure victory for Sporting, but a dramatic late penalty converted by Rodrigo Zalazar ensured Braga left the Estádio José Alvalade with a deserved 1-1 draw on a tense night in Lisbon.
Sporting started brightly, with Geovany Quenda testing Braga goalkeeper Luka Hornick in the opening exchanges after a slick team move.
Their strong start was rewarded in the 18th minute when Pote skillfully skipped past his marker and whipped in a low cross that Suárez tucked away, his fourth goal in as many matches.
Braga responded well to the setback, controlling possession for long periods though clear-cut chances remained scarce.
The second half followed a similar rhythm, with the visitors pushing for an equaliser and Sporting content to counterattack.
The hosts’ approach nearly backfired as Rui Silva produced a stunning save to deny Leonardo Lelo, while Braga had a strong appeal for a Maxi Araújo handball waved away.
Just as Sporting appeared poised to hold on, Morten Hjulmand’s tug on Gustaf Lagerbielke during a corner was spotted by VAR, prompting the referee to award a penalty.
Zalazar calmly slotted home from the spot deep into stoppage time, snatching a point for Braga, repeating last season’s result at Alvalade and leaving Sporting to rue missed opportunities.
