Portugal’s Players’ Union has reactivated a specialized commission dedicated to enhancing labor conditions, competitive structures, and overall participation for women in the sport.
The union’s new commission for women’s football held its inaugural meeting on Wednesday, November 26, focusing on key challenges.
This eight-member body aims to address critical issues facing female players and the broader women’s football landscape.
Key topics discussed included competitive frameworks for women’s football within Portugal. The commission also focused on a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) and general labor conditions for players.
Discussions covered insurance provisions and specific health concerns for women athletes. Strategies for increasing the number of female practitioners were also on the agenda. The group explored ways to improve women’s access to leadership roles in football.
The commission comprises union leadership, players, and experts. Members include Joaquim Evangelista, the union’s president, and João Oliveira, its secretary-general.
Carla Couto serves as an ambassador and director for women’s football. Matilde Fidalgo is an advisor, and Micaela Matos acts as a delegate for women’s football.
Former player and sports commentator Edite Fernandes is also a member. Isabel Osório, technical coordinator for women’s football at Atlético Ouriense, joined the commission. Francisca Cardoso, general director for women’s football at Valadares Gaia, is also part of the group.
This advisory body was initially established in 2016. It was created to support the Players’ Union’s women’s football department, which itself was founded in 2012. The resumption of the commission’s activity signals a renewed focus on contemporary issues affecting players.