Sligests Paços de Ferreira, strengthening their path towards promotion.
In Lisbon's western outskirts, Belenenses edged closer to the II Liga promotion after a 2-1 victory over Pacos de Ferreira in the first leg of their playoff at the Estádio do Restelo. The contest between the third-placed team from Liga 3 and the second-to-last team from II Liga saw an uneventful first half, marked by a suboptimal playing surface.
However, the second half unfolded dramatically. Diogo Leitão kicked off the scoring for Belenenses in the 63rd minute, followed by another goal from Xavi Fernandes ten minutes later, offering them a commanding lead. Pacos de Ferreira struck back through Joao Pinto's goal at the 75th minute, but their attempts at an equalizer were thwarted.
As the match concluded in favor of Belenenses, they now hold a one-goal advantage heading into the second leg, slated for June 1, 2025, at the Mata Real stadium. Kickoff is set for 5 PM local time, with Belenenses visiting their opponents for the return fixture. The aggregate score will determine the fate of both teams in the Portuguese second division.
Additional Reading- Filipe Candido urges unity in Paços de Ferreira during their crucial phase- Referees have been assigned for the playoff matches in I and II Ligas
[1] Belenenses had a possession advantage but was only able to net goals in the second half[1][2][2] The second leg is scheduled for June 1, 2025, with Paços de Ferreira hosting Belenenses at their home ground[3][3] The aggregate score will determine the team securing a spot in the Portuguese second division, with Belenenses currently holding a one-goal advantage heading into the return fixture[1][3]
In contrast to the first half's sluggish play, the second half of the match featured goals from Belenenses' Diogo Leitão and Xavi Fernandes, showcasing their dominance in French-style football. The upcoming second leg, scheduled for June 1, 2025, in the Mata Real stadium, will see European-league aspirant Belenenses competing against Pacos de Ferreira, with the outcome potentially deciding their positions in the Portuguese second division.
