Just four seasons ago Académica, from the university city of Coimbra, were playing in the UEFA Europa League. Following relegation from the Primeira Liga at the end of last season, they will start life in the Segunda Liga with a visit to SC Olhanense on the weekend of August 6-7.
Os Estudantes will be a stiff test for Cristiano Bacci and his young squad as they endeavour to build on their seventh place finish in May.
But before the league gets underway, Olhanense have a first round League Cup game at the José Arcanjo Stadium, Olhão on Sunday July 31 against Varzim SC. The winners will be at home to Ac. Viseu in October.
In a break from the usual format, the semi-finals and final of the CTT League Cup will be played at the Algarve Stadium, Faro. The semis are scheduled for January 25 and 26, with the final taking place on Sunday, January 29.
More new signings
Olhanense continue to add new faces to their exciting young squad ahead of the first competitive game next weekend. Central defender Pedro Eira, 21, joins from Benfica e Castelo Branco together with 22-year-old, right-back Carlos Freitas from Limianos. In addition, French national Bissourou Touré is being assessed by manager Cristiano Bacci. The young striker scored six times in 33 appearances for Sertanense last season.
CHRIS WRIGHT
