On Friday, O Torreense achieved an unprecedented qualification for the final of the women’s Portuguese Cup. In their debut year in the competition, the team from Torres Vedras defeated Futsal Feijó on penalties after a 2-2 draw in regulation time, securing the first ticket to the decisive match.
Despite Futsal Feijó being considered the favorite, Torreense remained competitive throughout the game, demonstrating not only courage but also quality, even resorting to a 5×4+GR formation to secure a draw. With just over a minute remaining, Futsal Feijó had a prime opportunity to clinch victory but failed to convert a penalty, leading to their defeat in the penalty shootout.
GOALS ELUDED BOTH TEAMS
The first half proceeded at a brisk pace, but both teams struggled with their finishing. Despite being the favorites, Futsal Feijó dominated possession, while Torreense relied on counterattacks to threaten Priscilla Gomes’ goal.
The initial minutes saw Setúbal’s team controlling the game, testing Cristiana Santos multiple times, but the Torreense goalkeeper thwarted every attempt. Meanwhile, Pedro Nobre’s team capitalized on Futsal Feijó’s defensive errors but failed to find the target.
However, ten minutes into the game, Torreense appealed for video assistance to determine whether Patricia Lino’s shot had crossed the goal line, but Priscilla Gomes managed to keep it out, as confirmed by the video replay. Despite Futsal Feijó’s increased pressure afterward, the score remained unchanged.
A GAME OF NEAR MISSES
The second half commenced with both teams showing greater attacking intent. Margarida Alves and Carolina Liliu came close to scoring in quick succession, but it was Torreense who took the lead shortly after. A lapse in concentration from Priscilla Gomes allowed Patrícia Lino to capitalize on a rebound, putting Torreense ahead.
The goal opened up the game, with Claudia Pereira equalizing from a corner kick, followed by Marta Sarroeira’s deflected long-range effort, which beat Cristiana Santos.
With the lead, Futsal Feijó controlled the tempo, while time favored them. Facing difficulty in breaking through, Pedro Nobre opted for a 5×4+GR strategy with under five minutes remaining. The move paid off, as Diovanna found Jessica Cordeiro to equalize.
As the game approached its conclusion, penalties seemed inevitable. However, Futsal Feijó had a late chance to win from the penalty spot but squandered it. The match proceeded to a penalty shootout, where Torreense emerged victorious after their goalkeeper saved Futsal Feijó’s first penalty, ultimately sealing their qualification for the final.
This Saturday, Torreense will contest their first Portuguese Cup final in history against either Again or Benfica.