The operational office of Liga Portugal has officially confirmed the comprehensive schedules for Rounds 18 and 19 of the second-tier professional competition. This announcement solidifies the calendar for a crucial period in January, providing clarity for clubs currently maneuvering for promotion slots and simultaneously attempting to avoid the increasingly sharp edge of relegation.
The release of fixtures signals the continued operational cadence of the league, emphasizing the rapid turnaround required of professional football squads during the mid-season push.
Round 18: Kicking Off the Mid-January Stretch
The 18th round is scheduled to span five days, initiating on Thursday, January 15th, with a high-profile encounter between FC Vizela and FC Paços de Ferreira, scheduled for 20:15 (local time). Paços de Ferreira, a side with established top-flight pedigree, enters this fixture with significant pressure to secure points and reclaim prominence.
A key technical highlight of the round takes place on Friday, January 16th, featuring Académico against União de Leiria at 18:00. These mid-table clashes often dictate the overall pace and ambition of the season`s second half, offering both teams a crucial three points.
The round concludes on Monday, January 19th, defined by simultaneous 18:00 fixtures involving major reserve sides. CD Feirense will host FC Porto B, while Sporting CP B will face SCU Torreense. The performance of these `B` teams is often a tactical subplot of the league, influencing both talent development pipelines and the integrity of the overall league table.
Round 19: The Rapid Succession
The schedule dictates a minimal recovery window, as the 19th round commences immediately the following weekend, running from Friday, January 23rd, through Monday, January 26th.
This round opens with FC Paços de Ferreira hosting Académico at 18:00 on Friday. This scheduling indicates a demanding three-day turnover for both sides, a familiar, if technically challenging, aspect of second-tier football organization.
The closing fixture for Round 19 sees União de Leiria hosting Sporting CP B on Monday, January 26th, also at 18:00. As the league tightens, these late-round, weekday fixtures frequently hold disproportionate significance for movement within the standings.
Below is the detailed, confirmed technical schedule for both the 18th and 19th rounds:
Official Fixture Schedule
These confirmed timings ensure that operational planning, logistical arrangements, and match-day preparations for all involved clubs can proceed efficiently as the league navigates this critical phase of the championship.
