In a classic cup fixture, Portimonense secured a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Académico de Viseu in a thrilling Taça da Liga encounter, proving that the magic of knockout football often lies in its unpredictability. The top-tier visitors eventually prevailed, but not before being given a stern test by their second-division hosts.
A Whirlwind First Half: Goals Galore and Shifting Fortunes
The Estádio do Fontelo was buzzing with anticipation, and the match wasted no time in delivering excitement. Just seven minutes into the contest, Portimonense were awarded a penalty. Up stepped Tamble Monteiro, who calmly converted the spot-kick, putting the visitors in the driver`s seat and silencing the home crowd – if only momentarily.
However, Académico de Viseu, undeterred by the early setback, showcased their resilience. In the 19th minute, Álvaro Zamora unleashed a sudden strike from outside the area, finding the back of the net and restoring parity. It was a moment of pure quality that reminded everyone present that the lower division team wasn`t merely there to make up the numbers.
The seesaw battle continued. Portimonense regained their lead in the 29th minute. Following a corner, a scramble ensued in front of Bruno Brígido`s goal, and Dânio Djassi was quickest to react to a rebound, prodding the ball home to give the Algarve side a 2-1 advantage going into the break. The pace was frantic, the defending sometimes questionable, but the entertainment factor was undeniably high.
Monteiro`s Brace Seals the Deal Amidst Late Drama
The second half maintained the intensity, albeit with a slightly more cautious approach from both sides as the stakes grew higher. Portimonense, keen to consolidate their lead, pushed forward, and their efforts paid dividends in the 68th minute. Tamble Monteiro, already on the scoresheet, completed his brace, tapping in an assist from João Reis. It was a clinical finish that left the opposition goalkeeper with no chance, extending Portimonense’s lead to a seemingly comfortable 3-1.
One might have thought the game was sealed, but cup football, as we know, loves to throw in a last-minute curveball. Deep into stoppage time, in the 90+1st minute, Académico de Viseu found a glimmer of hope. Nikolaos Michelis rose highest to connect with a header, reducing the deficit to 3-2. The goal injected a fresh burst of energy into the home side and their supporters, leading to a tense final few moments. However, Portimonense managed to hold on, weathering the late storm to secure their progression in the competition.
Man of the Match and What It Means
The standout performer of the evening was undoubtedly Portimonense`s Tamble Monteiro. His two goals, including a crucial penalty, provided the cutting edge his team needed to overcome a determined opponent. Monteiro`s ability to be in the right place at the right time, combined with his composure from the spot, earned him deserved accolades.
For Portimonense, this victory signifies a successful start to their Taça da Liga campaign, demonstrating their ability to navigate tricky away fixtures against spirited lower-division teams. For Académico de Viseu, while the loss is disappointing, their performance showed grit and a clear attacking intent, suggesting they are a force to be reckoned with in their own league. It was a match that exemplified the very essence of knockout football: passion, drama, and a reminder that rankings often count for little when the whistle blows.
