In a move underscoring its commitment to the fluidity and dynamism of the sport, Liga Portugal has recently presented its “O Futebol #NãoPara” (Football Doesn`t Stop) awards for the 2024-25 season. This particular accolade shines a spotlight on the clubs that best manage to keep the ball rolling, quite literally, throughout a match.
The award is specifically designed to recognise teams that achieve the highest average percentage of “useful playing time” – the actual minutes the ball is in play, excluding stoppages for fouls, substitutions, goal celebrations, or perhaps, tactical time-wasting. In an era where complaints about stop-start games are as common as misplaced passes, this initiative by Liga Portugal serves as a clear statement: the league values action over interruption.
Claiming the honour in the top flight, Liga Portugal Betclic, was SC Braga. The `Archbishops` demonstrated remarkable efficiency, averaging a “useful time” percentage of 57.91%. For those counting, that translates to an impressive 56 minutes and 59 seconds of actual football per game. The award was formally presented by Sónia Costa Cunha, Liga Portugal`s CFO, to SC Braga President, António Salvador, acknowledging the club`s dedication to maintaining a high tempo.
In Liga Portugal 2 Meu Super, the distinction went to CD Feirense. Their performance in maximizing playing time earned them the award with an average of 54.85% useful time, equating to 54 minutes and 14 seconds per match. This recognition was handed over by Bernardo Azevedo, General Director of Liga Comercial, to Miguel Fernandes, the club`s SAD Administrator, and Ricardo Vasconcelos, the Sports Director, highlighting Feirense`s effective approach in the second tier.
This award is more than just a trophy; it`s a tangible incentive for clubs to adopt strategies that reduce unnecessary game stoppages. Whether through faster set-pieces, disciplined player behaviour, or just a collective desire to play football, these clubs have set a benchmark. In a sport often criticised for downtime, celebrating the teams that prioritise continuous play is a commendable step towards enhancing the product`s attractiveness for fans and broadcasters alike. It subtly prompts the question: if they can do it, why can`t everyone?
By highlighting these examples of efficiency, Liga Portugal not only congratulates the winners but also encourages a league-wide shift towards more fluid and action-packed matches, proving that, indeed, “Football Doesn`t Stop.”
