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Three more teams secure promotion spots; João Pereira celebrates first win back with Sporting B
In the penultimate round of the Liga 3 regular season, three more teams have clinched their spots for the promotion phase.
Playing away, Fafe had the chance to secure their advancement and did not disappoint. In a balanced match against Amarante, the lack of scoring opportunities resulted in a goalless draw, which was enough for Fafe to secure their place.
In another match in series A,Lusitânia de Lourosa celebrated a narrow victory over Sanjoanense,winning 1-0. The decisive moment came late in the game, with Dylan Collard scoring the winner in the 88th minute. Like last season, the team will compete for promotion to Liga 2.
Already assured of their advancement, Varzim faced a tough challenge against Trofense. After Semeu put Trofense ahead in the 9th minute, Varzim fought back, with Zé oliveira equalizing in the 68th minute and Rúben Ribeiro completing the comeback in dramatic fashion with a goal in the dying moments of the match (90+4′).
SC Braga B also enjoyed success this round, defeating Vilaverdense 2-1 and keeping their promotion hopes alive. Goals from Yan Said (10′) and Rodrigo Macedo (32′) set the tone for Braga, while João Pedro (75′) netted a consolation goal for the visitors, who saw abdul Ibrahim sent off with a direct red card in the 81st minute.
In a clash between two teams from the lower half of the table, Anadia and São João de Ver played to an exciting 2-2 draw. Cuba opened the scoring for Anadia in the 13th minute,but João Victor equalized shortly before halftime (38′).
In the 80th minute, Yan Maranhão restored Anadia’s lead with a penalty, but Ruca leveled the score again with another penalty in stoppage time (90′).
1.º Dezembro shines as João Pereira returns to winning ways
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Further south in Series B, both matches on Saturday had important implications. In Coimbra, 1.º Dezembro triumphed over Académica with a score of 2-1, celebrating their progression to the decisive phase. Early goals from Evandro Barros (1′) and Pedro Clemente (10′) set the stage, with Khalid Hachadi scoring for the students in the 79th minute.
Meanwhile, in Alcochete, Sporting B took advantage of Académica’s defeat to leap into fourth place, the last spot for the next round. In João Pereira’s first win since returning to manage the team, the lions defeated Belenenses 2-1. Goals from Rafael Nel (12′) and Luís Gomes (75′) secured the victory, while Diogo Brasido (52′) scored for Belenenses, who finished the match with ten men after Nuno Tomás received a second yellow card in the 90+3’ minute.
Series A Standings
Series B Standings
Q&A with Football Expert on Recent Developments in Liga 3
Editor: It’s an exciting time in Liga 3! With three more teams securing promotion spots in the penultimate round of the regular season, how significant is this moment in terms of team momentum and player morale?
Expert: Absolutely, this is a pivotal moment for the teams involved. Securing promotion not only boosts morale but also validates the hard work that players and coaches have put in throughout the season. As a notable example, Fafe’s goalless draw was a tactical success—sometimes, just ensuring you don’t lose can be as crucial as going for the win, especially in such a tightly contested league.
Editor: Speaking of close matches, lusitânia de Lourosa won against Sanjoanense thanks to a late goal. How important is it for teams to maintain focus until the very end of the match?
Expert: Maintaining concentration until the final whistle is vital. The fact that Dylan Collard scored in the 88th minute highlights how crucial late goals can be, not only for points but for building a resilient mentality. success frequently enough comes down to planning, willpower, and the ability to capitalize on the smallest opportunities in high-pressure moments.
Editor: Varzim‘s dramatic comeback against Trofense certainly captured attention. What does such a comeback indicate about a team’s character?
Expert: Comebacks like Varzim’s reflect resilience and determination. Coming from behind, especially in the dying moments of a match, can be a turning point for any team.It builds a sense of unity and belief among players. teams that can leverage that emotional momentum often carry it into future matches, which is invaluable as they aim for promotion to Liga 2.
Editor: In Series B, João Pereira’s return to Sporting B resulted in an important victory. How does a new managerial appointment impact team performance?
Expert: A new manager can reinvigorate a squad, and João Pereira’s first win back is a classic example of that effect. Fresh strategies and perspectives can lead to immediate improvements. The players may feel newly motivated or even challenged to prove themselves, which can result in enhanced performance on the pitch—something we saw with Sporting B as they moved into a crucial promotion spot.
Editor: The standings are quite dynamic as we approach the final stretches. What strategies should teams employ in such a congested schedule to secure a place in the next round?
Expert: Teams need to balance tactical discipline with physical conditioning. Rotating players to manage fatigue is essential, especially as injuries can derail promotion hopes at this stage. Additionally, focusing on set pieces can often make a difference in close encounters.Every goal counts, and teams that can capitalize on such moments typically find themselves advancing.
Editor: with several teams still in the mix for promotion, what advice would you give to fans and clubs about handling the pressure that comes with such tight competition?
Expert: for fans, understanding the emotional rollercoaster of football is key—support through highs and lows strengthens community ties. For clubs, communication is crucial. Keeping players focused on one game at a time helps manage expectations and reduces anxiety.Emphasizing teamwork, discipline, and a collective mindset can keep spirits high, which is essential in thes critical moments of the season.
With the Liga 3 season drawing to an exciting close,fans will certainly be watching closely as teams vie for their coveted promotion spots.
