Football teams often face an uphill battle, but Nacional is kicking off its season with more than its share of challenges. The squad is dealing with a significant number of injured players. Some of these key absences will certainly keep them off the pitch when the league starts.
Coach Tiago Margarido’s lineup is feeling the pinch. Upfront, forward Pablo Ruan and winger Mootaz Nourani are both working to recover from ankle sprains. Midfielder Deivison, who hails from Brazil, also picked up a knee sprain. It looks very likely he will need surgery. Other players are also on the mend. Léo Santos, Douglas Nathan, and Lenny Vallier are all getting medical treatment for muscle injuries.
The recovery room seems busy, but there’s some good news. Forward Lucas João, who recently had surgery on a bone in his left hand, should be back training in about four weeks. However, Miguel Baeza and Ivanildo Fernandes won’t be ready to play in competitive matches until September.
Despite these hurdles, the team keeps pushing forward. Nacional is getting ready for the Funchal City Trophy this Sunday. The “black and whites,” as they are known, will continue their preparations tomorrow at 10:30 AM. They train at the Nationalist complex in Choupana. The friendly match itself kicks off at 5:00 PM at Marítimo Stadium. The club has decided to do something special with the ticket money. Tickets cost five euros, and all the funds from sales will go to a great cause: the Clube Desportivo Os Especiais, or The Specials Sports Club.
