In just three training sessions and a friendly match, Jesús Velasco has already started to reshape Spain’s National Team. The newly appointed coach, introduced five days prior, led the team to a meaningful 1-0 away win over Portugal, a symbolic victory against the European champions amid their own generational transition. For Spain, this victory is a much-needed morale boost and a chance to shed old tactical burdens against one of their toughest rivals.
With key World Cup winners (like Mellado, Antonio, Adolfo, and Catella) resting or recovering, Velasco’s lineup of returnees and newcomers performed exceptionally well in Sines. His starting five included Chemi in goal, Alberto as the closing defender, Bebe at point, Rivillos on the left wing, and Cecilio as center forward. The coach’s classic 4-0 formation dismantled Portugal’s defense, creating dangerous opportunities through well-placed passes behind the line.
the game
Velasco used every player called up, experimenting with combinations like Jaén’s dynamic duo Chinese and Dani Zurdo, along with ElPozo Murcia players Ricardo and Stephen. Renato joined later, and by the third rotation, Bebe played alongside Pani, Javi Mínguez, and Dani Gabriel. Without time for elaborate tactics, the strategy was clear: keep things disciplined, keep moving, and compete without fear. Velasco avoided a physical battle with Portugal, sticking instead to a game plan focused on vertical play and aggression.
The first half was goalless, but the second period saw Miquel Feixas excel in goal. In the 23rd minute, Javi Mínguez won the ball from Silvestre, setting up Esteban for a precise strike past Edu Sousa that put Spain ahead. Portugal, missing key players like Zicky Té and Tomás Paço, responded with emerging talents such as Lucio Rocha and Neves, and brought on Barcelona’s Erick in search of an equalizer. However, Spain’s experienced players held the line, while the younger players kept up the pressure.
Portugal had previously dominated Spain in official competitions, defeating them in the 2018 European Championship final, the 2021 World Cup quarterfinals, and the Finalissima in 2022. But in friendlies, Spain recently prevailed in Matosinhos (2019) and Malaga (2021). Velasco’s debut was more than just a friendly; it was a statement of intent. With mobility, quality, and intensity as the core values, Spain weathered Portugal’s final push and sent a clear message of change to the international futsal scene.
