Alverca faces a big challenge this Sunday. They’re up against Benfica, one of the country’s top clubs. But before the whistle even blows, Alverca has some gaps to fill. Their goal will see a new face between the posts. Matheus Oliveira, a Brazilian talent, looks ready to step up. He arrived from Atlético Mineiro. Oliveira was on the bench for Alverca’s 2-2 draw against Estrela da Amadora. Now, he’s expected to get his chance.
The usual starting goalkeeper, André Gomes, cannot play. He is on loan from Benfica. Loan agreements often stop players from facing their parent clubs. So, Alverca needs a replacement. This shift also means André Paulo is moving on. He will join Alverca’s B team. This squad plays in the Campeonato de Portugal league. It’s a double change for the club’s goalkeeping ranks.
The changes don’t stop there for Alverca. Their central defender, Naves, also won’t be on the field. He received a red card in the last game. Naves was another player on loan, this time from Palmeiras. Now, the coaching staff must pick between Steven Baseya or Julian Martínez. Martínez made his first appearance for Alverca in that Amadora match. Both players are now in the running to fill the gap in defense. Alverca is rebuilding its backline right before facing the Eagles.