Epic Torreense!: win Taça v Sporting CP, into Europa League… from tier two | OneFootball

Portuguese football wrote one of those stories that seem impossible. Torreense, a team playing in the Second Division, defeated Sporting CP 2-1 in extra time and were crowned Taça de Portugal champions for the first time in their history. And as if that were not enough, the Torres Vedras side secured qualification for next season’s Europa League while still fighting for promotion to the Primeira Liga.

Just four minutes had been played when Spaniard Javi Vázquez delivered a precise corner and Kévin Zohi took advantage of a defensive lapse to open the scoring. It was an unexpected blow for Sporting, who, as the strongest side among the finalists, came in as clear favorites. They were also the defending champions, having beaten Benfica in last year’s final.

Tralhao’s team held on as best they could throughout the first half. Sporting attacked constantly, piled up shots, and pinned back their opponent, but they ran into a monumental performance from Luca Paes. The goalkeeper preserved the lead with several decisive saves and especially denied Luis Suárez, who had a very clear chance before halftime.

The Lions’ pressure finally paid off in the second half. In the 54th minute, Luis Díaz finished with class after a move created by Maxi Araújo to make it 1-1. It seemed only a matter of time before Sporting completed the comeback, especially after Geny Catamo had a goal disallowed for offside. However, Torreense managed to take the match into extra time.

In extra time came the moment that will remain forever in the club’s memory. With seven minutes left, a counterattack ended in a penalty for Torreense after Maxi Araújo pulled Seydi down, a play that also led to a red card. Stopira took responsibility and blasted a powerful shot down the middle past Rui Silva to seal the 2-1 win that ultimately secured the title and European competition next season.

Torreense finished third in the Portuguese second division. For that reason, they are currently playing the promotion playoff against Casa Pia. The first leg, played on Wednesday, May 20, ended 0-0, and now the return leg remains this Thursday the 28th at the Estádio Municipal de Rio Maior. If Torreense win, they will play in the 2026/2027 Primeira Liga.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.