Nacional coach Tiago Margarido projected an “entertaining game” against Estrela da Amadora on Sunday, voicing confidence in his team’s strong away performances despite the opponent’s recent resurgence and prior defeats in current season matchups.
Speaking from the press room at Estádio da Madeira in Funchal, Margarido acknowledged the challenge of facing “a very motivated opponent, playing at home and in front of their public.” He quickly countered, stating, “we have also had excellent away performances and have already managed to score points several times.”
The 36-year-old coach downplayed the significance of Nacional’s two previous losses to Estrela da Amadora earlier this season. He emphasized that “these are different teams” compared to those that met previously.
Margarido explained the shift, noting that Estrela da Amadora has seen significant changes, having “lost most of its midfield and also its defensive line, as well as the full-backs.” He added that Nacional is also “a different team,” suggesting distinct game characteristics for the upcoming encounter.
The upcoming match is part of the 11th round of Liga Betclic. It is scheduled for Sunday at Estádio José Gomes, Estrela da Amadora’s home ground, with kickoff at 14:30 UTC.
Estrela da Amadora, now under new coach João Nuno, enters the match following a morale-boosting 5-3 victory over Casa Pia.
Margarido indicated he is prepared for “all the dynamics” Estrela da Amadora might present, highlighting their tactical versatility and potential midfield variations. He specifically mentioned possible formations like a “5x3x2” or a “3x4x3,” with players like Jorge Meireles or Jovane Cabral adapting roles.
Nacional will face several absences for the game. Pablo Ruan, Ulisses, Ivanildo, and Lucas França are out due to injuries. Zé Vítor is suspended after being expelled in the last round.
However, Chiheb Laabidi has recovered from physical problems and will rejoin the squad.
Nacional currently sits ninth in the league standings with 11 points. Estrela da Amadora is 13th, holding 10 points.
The match will be officiated by Fábio Veríssimo, a referee from a Portuguese association.