The road to glory often holds unexpected detours. For the Portuguese women’s beach soccer squad, their spot in the semifinals of the 2025 European League Superfinal in Viareggio, Italy, came not just from their own efforts, but from a rival’s misstep. They secured their passage this Wednesday thanks to Switzerland’s defeat against Poland.
This loss by the Swiss team, again decided by penalty shootouts, just as it had been the day before against Portugal, solidified Portugal’s position. Coach Alan Cavalcanti’s players locked up one of the top two spots in Group A, which features only three teams.
On Friday, Portugal will face Poland. This match is more than just a group decider; Poland is the reigning champion, adding an extra layer of challenge. It will be Portugal’s second and final game in the group stage.
Portugal had a tough opening game against Switzerland on Tuesday, winning 4-3 in a penalty shootout. The match had ended 3-3 after extra time, showing their fighting spirit from the start.
This team knows the Superfinal stage well. They reached the final in the last two editions, only to fall short. In 2023, they lost 3-2 to Spain. The following year, in 2024, Poland defeated them 5-1. Both of those finals were held in Alghero, Italy. Now, with a semifinal spot secured, Portugal aims to change their fortune and claim the title they’ve been chasing.