Decisive figure holds nerve from the spot for Rio Ave | OneFootball

Jalen Blesa converted a penalty in the 74th minute to give Rio Ave a 2-1 victory at Estoril.

The forward stayed calm from twelve yards, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way after VAR confirmed the spot kick. His penalty proved the difference on a night decided by set piece moments and fine margins.

Late on, Blesa slipped Tamble Monteiro through for a low effort that was saved (89.). He continued to contest long balls and relieve pressure as Rio Ave protected their lead.

He needed just one attempt to score and added graft to craft: eight possessions won, five aerial duels won and two clearances. That blend of penalty box decisiveness and defensive work underlined why he was the game's decisive figure.

Because he offered a direct outlet and competed aggressively for first balls, Estoril's back line were repeatedly forced onto their heels, and Rio Ave controlled the key phases once ahead.

Rio Ave rise from 14th to 10th and host Alverca next. Estoril stay seventh and visit Arouca.