Portimonense football club completed its rebuilding process as the summer transfer window closed with the last-minute surprise signing of diminutive Brazilian striker ‘Renatinho’.
The 23-year-old arrived in the Algarve from Japanese club Kawasaki Frontale where he established a good reputation alongside now Porto star Hulk in the J-League. It is hoped that he will give Portimão the potency so far missing up front in conjunction with soon to be fit Dong Fangzhuo, and the pair should be seen in action for the first time against local rivals Olhao next weekend.
Meanwhile Portimonense have been making the most of the two-week international break despite the absence of almost half the team, including four players in action for the U-21s against England, a game which was lost 1-0 taking Portugal out of the running for that age group’s European Championships finals.
Those not on international duty for their various countries around the world took part in a 1-0 win over Lagoa before losing out to Olhão by the same scoreline at last Sunday’s Xelb Cup in Silves – the hosts were subsequently beaten 3-0 with João Paulo, Pedro Silva and Pires on target. Rio Ave, one place below Portimonense in the Liga Sagres, represent the next big challenge this Sunday afternoon before derby time beckons.
