A Portuguese football club is grappling with uncertainty in its goalkeeping ranks as a key player faces a race against time to be fit for an upcoming league fixture.
Juan Castillo, the 22-year-old Colombian goalkeeper, is currently sidelined with a physical problem that makes him doubtful for Friday’s match against Santa Clara.
He missed a recent Portuguese Cup match against Mortágua, where he was not included in the squad. A medical bulletin from the club indicated Castillo was suffering from knee pain.
Despite the setback, the club has stated the injury is not considered serious, and there are good prospects for his recovery before the league fixture.
Should Castillo remain unavailable, Brazilian goalkeeper Charles is expected to start between the posts. Charles previously featured in the Cup match in Castillo’s absence.
The upcoming game against Santa Clara is part of the 12th round of Portugal’s top-tier Liga Betclic.
Further complicating squad selection, Beni Mukendi is also listed as doubtful for the match. Gustavo Silva continues to receive medical attention and remains unavailable for selection.