The only match in this batch to produce goals was the friendly between Sousense and CF União Lamas, played at the Estádio Municipal de Sousense on 25 July 2026. The Portuguese lower-league sides served up an entertaining 2-1 contest that saw the home side come from behind to secure a morale-boosting victory. The match was part of the International Club Friendly series, providing both clubs with a tough physical test and an opportunity to experiment with tactics.

Match Overview and Key Moments

CF União Lamas, playing away from home, started brightly and took a surprise lead in the 14th minute. A well-worked corner routine saw defender Rui Pedro rise highest to power a header past Sousense goalkeeper Pedro Costa. The goal jolted Sousense into action, and they responded with sustained pressure. Their equaliser came in the 33rd minute when midfielder João Alves collected a loose ball on the edge of the box and fired a low drive into the bottom corner.

The second half was a more scrappy affair, but Sousense found the winner in the 68th minute. Substitue winger Ricardo Santos cut in from the left flank and unleashed a curling shot that beat the União Lamas keeper at his near post. Despite late pressure from the visitors, Sousense held on to secure the 2-1 victory.

Tactical Story: Second-Half Adjustments

Sousense manager Miguel Coelho made a crucial tactical tweak at half-time, instructing his full-backs to push higher and pin back the União Lamas wide players. This shift allowed Sousense to dominate the second half territorially and create the space for the winning goal. CF União Lamas, after their early goal, dropped deeper and were unable to sustain their attack, a common issue in pre-season fitness levels.

Standout Players

• João Alves (Sousense) – The midfielder was a driving force from midfield, scoring the equaliser and dictating the tempo after the break.
• Ricardo Santos (Sousense) – The substitute's impact was immediate, providing the winner with a moment of individual quality.
• Rui Pedro (CF União Lamas) – The defender's powerful header gave his side an early lead and he was solid defensively for much of the match.

Season Impact

For Sousense, the victory provides a confidence boost as they prepare for their campaign in the Portuguese lower leagues. CF União Lamas can take positives from their first-half display but will need to improve their stamina and defensive concentration for longer periods. Both sides used all available substitutes, which is typical in pre-season friendlies, and no injuries were reported.