Sporting clinch Champions League berth

LISBON, May 7 (Reuters) Sporting clinched second place and a berth in the group stage of the Champions League with a 1-0 home win over Braga in the final round of the Portuguese season today.

Porto, who secured their 21st league title three weeks ago, could complete the double when they face holders Vitoria Setubal in the Portuguese Cup final on May 14.

Midfielder Joao Moutinho scored Sporting's winning goal after 21 minutes as he received a long pass from the right by defender Abel and left goalkeeper Paulo Santos no chance with a well-placed shot.

Benfica, despite their 3-1 defeat at Pacos Ferreira, finished third and are in the third qualifying round of the elite European club competition.

Midfielder Manuel Fernandes put Benfica in front with a 25-metre shot after 37 minutes.

Pacos's Brazilian striker Edson exploited a blunder from the Benfica keeper Moretto to level the score after 50 minutes.

Striker Junior Bahia grabbed victory for Pacos with two goals, one from outside the area after 68 minutes and one in stoppage time from inside the box.

Braga and Nacional Madeira had already secured UEFA Cup spots alongside Cup finalists Vitoria Setubal.

Vitoria Guimaraes, after 52 seasons in the top flight, joined Penafiel, Rio Ave and Belenenses in being relegated. They will be replaced only by two teams -- Beira Mar and Desportivo Aves -- to reduce the league to 16 teams next season.

Reuters VJ VP0230