CF Os Belenenses and FC Arouca played out a breathless 3-3 draw in the Taça de Portugal, with the tie eventually decided in a penalty shootout after extra time. The six-goal contest had swings in momentum, a late equaliser and enough drama to justify the cup’s reputation for unpredictability.

Match overview

Belenenses, backed by a lively home crowd, started with energy and took the game to their higher-ranked opponents. Arouca grew into the contest as their possession game began to function, but the home side’s direct running and set-piece threat kept the tie finely balanced. The scoreline changed hands repeatedly, with neither team able to establish a lasting grip on the match.

By the closing stages, the game had opened up completely. Arouca looked to have done enough when they moved ahead in the second half, but Belenenses found a stoppage-time equaliser to force extra time. With no further goals across the additional period, the tie went to penalties, where Arouca held their nerve to progress.

Key moments

• 12th minute – Belenenses lead: The home side struck first when a quick move down the right ended with a low finish into the far corner.
• 27th minute – Arouca equalise: Arouca responded through a composed finish inside the box after sustained pressure around the Belenenses area.
• 44th minute – Belenenses retake the lead: A well-delivered set piece caused confusion in the Arouca defence, and Belenenses pounced to score from close range.
• 58th minute – Arouca level again: Arouca worked the ball into the box and finished clinically to make it 2-2.
• 72nd minute – Arouca go ahead: A sweeping counter-attack ended with a powerful strike that beat the goalkeeper and put Arouca 3-2 up.
• 90+4th minute – Belenenses equalise: With the home crowd urging them on, Belenenses forced a late goal to send the tie to extra time at 3-3.

Tactical story

Belenenses leaned on a compact defensive shape and looked to attack quickly when they won possession. Their willingness to play forward early caused problems for Arouca’s back line, especially in wide areas, and their set-piece delivery remained a consistent threat throughout. The home side’s energy levels never dropped, even after conceding the initiative for long spells.

Arouca controlled more of the ball and created chances through patient build-up, but they were repeatedly exposed in transition. Their best moments came when they moved the ball wide quickly and attacked the penalty area with numbers. The introduction of fresh legs in the second half helped Arouca raise the tempo, though they were ultimately forced to rely on their composure from the penalty spot.

Standout players

Belenenses’ captain led by example in midfield, driving the team forward and helping to maintain belief after each setback. Their goalkeeper also made several important saves across normal time and extra time to keep the tie alive. For Arouca, the attacking players who combined for the second and third goals were central to their comeback, while their penalty takers showed calmness in a high-pressure shootout.

What the tie means

For Arouca, the result is a warning as much as a relief: they survived a genuine cup scare and advanced, but the performance highlighted defensive vulnerabilities that will need attention in the next round. For Belenenses, the 3-3 draw will be remembered as a night when they pushed a stronger opponent to the limit. The Portuguese Cup result adds another memorable chapter to the competition’s long tradition of upsets, late drama and penalty shootout tension.