By CHRIS WRIGHT
The 16 teams in Liga Sagres entered the third round of the Portugal Millennium Cup at the weekend, together with 48 teams from the lower leagues all hoping for cup glory.
It was little Valenciano who caused the biggest shock with their victory over Olhanense. For the small municipality of Valença do Minho, in the far north, this was a day that will long live in their memory.
Valenciano are three levels below their visitors in the pyramid system but from the start they went on the attack. David, Nuno Gomes and keeper Vitor Nuno, had played for Atlético de Valdevez when they beat Olhanense at the same stage of the competition last season.
The Olhão team were without seven of their first team, either through international duty or injury, but can have no excuses for this poor performance.
The Algarveans took the lead just before half-time when Messi slotted home a penalty. The 1,500 local fans, who packed the small ground, were euphoric when Hélder levelled the scores in the 56th minute.
Neither side was able to break the deadlock even during extra-time. The lottery of a penalty shoot-out saw the home side go through 4-2 with Vitor Nuno making two fine saves.
Maritimo (Madeira) were the only other top league team to go out after their 2-1 defeat at Santa Clara (Azores). Liga Vitalis leaders Portimonense lost narrowly 2-1 at first division Académica to end their interest in the cup.
Today (Friday), Olhanense play Belenenses in Lisbon, kick-off 8.15pm live on Sport TV1. Jorge Costa will be hoping that his young stars – Ventura, Castro, Ukra, Tengarrinha and Rabiola – will have recovered from their trip to Greece and Macedonia where they represented Portugal Under 21s in the European Championships.
Next Wednesday (October 28) Olhanense commence their Carlsberg League Cup campaign when they visit 2nd Division Estoril KO 8.15pm live on Sport TV.
Olhanense next play at home on Sunday, November 1 against Rio Ave KO 4pm.
For further information on how to obtain tickets please contact Emily Richardson at [email protected] (Tel. 939 486 870) or [email protected] (Tel. 916 504 903).
