The Benfica women’s roller hockey team cruised past Stuart de Massamá 4-0 in the opening match of the Taça de Portugal final four in Famalicão. This win sets up a final showdown on Saturday, where they’ll defend their title, having won it every year since 2014.
Benfica dominated from the start, taking a 3-0 lead into halftime. Maria Sofia Silva opened the scoring with a deflected goal in the 15th minute, while Sofia Moncóvio doubled the advantage two minutes later. Marlene Sousa added a third just before halftime, capping off a strong first half. Benfica sealed the win early in the second half with Maria Sofia Silva’s second goal.
Coach Paulo Almeida praised his team’s performance, saying, “The Stuart team gave a great response for 50 minutes. They held their own against us as long as they were physically strong.” He added that once Benfica scored the first goal, Stuart’s morale dipped, allowing his team to take control. “We’re not sure who we’ll face in the final, but I believe it’ll be Sanjoanense. Either way, it’ll be a tough match.”
Benfica has been the dominant force in Portuguese women’s roller hockey, winning every national title since the 2012/13 season. Their coach is confident that his team will continue their winning streak, saying, “The players want to keep breaking records and win their 11th consecutive Taça de Portugal.”
Stuart de Massamá’s Coach Praises Team’s Effort
Stuart de Massamá coach Pedro Favinha was proud of his team’s effort, despite the loss. “Half my team arrived just 20 minutes before the game because some players had work or university commitments,” he explained. “They made a huge effort to be here and help their teammates.”
Favinha acknowledged that Benfica’s experience and ball control made the difference. “We were doing well until the 16th minute, but Benfica scored two goals and that changed everything.” He was still pleased with his team’s performance, saying, “We didn’t just defend; we showed character and quality hockey. We made the Stuart name and women’s hockey proud.”
Key Takeaways
- Benfica won 4-0 against Stuart de Massamá in the Taça de Portugal semifinals.
- The team dominated from the start, taking a 3-0 lead into halftime.
- Benfica coach Paulo Almeida praised his team’s performance and acknowledged Stuart’s effort.
- Stuart coach Pedro Favinha was proud of his team’s effort despite the loss.
- Benfica is set to defend their title in the final on Saturday.