Rio Ave played a training match against Chaves on Thursday morning. The goal was simple: keep the players sharp during the international break. They certainly achieved that, securing a commanding 4-1 victory.
The friendly game took place at the Francisco Carvalho Complex, which is Chaves’ home base. Rio Ave found the net through Ole Pohlmann, who scored twice. João Graça and Liavas also added goals for the Vilacondenses. Chaves managed to pull one back, with Uros Milovanovic scoring the only goal for the team led by coach Filipe Martins.
Rio Ave’s coach, Sotiris Solaidopoulos, sent out a strong starting eleven. It featured Kevin Chamorro in goal, with João Tomé, Petrasso, Lomboto, and Ntoi in defense. The midfield was controlled by Dario Spikic, Liavas, Olinho, and João Graça, while Toto Medina and Marc Gual led the attack. Later in the game, Caíke, Fil, Lobato, Ferati, Sawané, and Antoine all came on to play.
Chaves, however, faced a tougher situation, missing several key players. Lino, Kiko Pereira, Wellington, Rúben Pina, and Paulo Victor were all out due to injuries. Roberto, Ricardo Alves, and Aarón Romero were rested as part of effort management. Adding to their challenges, international players Vozinha and Zach Muscat were away on national team duty.