Without Ronaldo, Al Nassr Suffer a Bitter Defeat Against Portimonense in Injury Time

Relegated team Portimonense pulled off a major surprise by securing a narrow 1-0 victory against Saudi Arabia’s Al Nassr in the dying moments of the match.

The friendly match between Portimonense and Al Nassr took place at the Portimao City Stadium. The result was shocking as the home team, Portimonense, which had just experienced the heartbreak of relegation last season, defeated the wealthy Saudi Arabian team with a 1-0 scoreline.

Portimonense, under the guidance of coach Sérgio Vieira, showed strong fighting spirit throughout the match.

Vieira fielded a starting lineup consisting of Vinicius Silvestre, Kelechi, Feliciano, Filipe Relvas, Cláudio, Lucas Ventura, Davis, Seck, Francisco Varela, Rui Gomes, and Reymundo. This blend of experience and youth proved effective for the Portuguese team.

The only goal of the match came in a dramatic moment in the third minute of injury time. Hélio Varela, the Cape Verdean winger, became the hero for Portimonense by scoring the decisive goal, securing the victory for the home team. This was Portimonense’s first win in their preparation phase for the new season, following two draws and two losses.

As for Al Nassr, the Saudi Arabian team is undergoing training in the Algarve until the end of the month. Notably, superstar Cristiano Ronaldo was absent from this match as he is still on vacation and is expected to return in August. However, another familiar face from Portuguese football, midfielder Otávio, appeared from the bench and was introduced in the second half.

This match marked the fourth time Al Nassr played in Portugal during their training camp. Previously, the Saudi Arabian team won against Marítimo and drew with Farense and Louletano. The defeat to Portimonense was their first unfavorable result on this trip.

For Portimonense, this victory is a valuable morale boost after their relegation. It shows that the team still has potential and competitive ability, even when facing higher-rated teams.

Al Nassr will conclude their training camp in Portugal on July 28 with a match against FC Porto. This promises to be a highlight, especially for Portuguese football fans, as they get the chance to see a top Saudi Arabian team face one of Portugal’s most famous clubs.

Meanwhile, Portimonense is aiming for a return to Portugal’s top league. They will begin their campaign in the second division on Monday, August 12, with a home match against newly-promoted Felgueiras.