FC Caldas 1–3 Sintrense
Portuguese Cup | August 31, 2026

Sintrense produced a clinical away display to knock FC Caldas out of the Portuguese Cup, running out 3–1 winners at Campo da Mata. The result ensured Sintrense advanced to the next round, while Caldas were left to reflect on a disappointing exit from the competition in front of their home supporters.

Match overview

The game started at a lively tempo, with Caldas looking to make their home advantage count. They pressed well in the opening 20 minutes and deservedly took the lead when a well-worked move down the left ended with a low finish into the far corner. However, the advantage lasted only minutes, as Sintrense levelled with a header from a corner.

From that point on, the visitors took control. Sintrense's midfield began to dominate possession and their movement stretched the Caldas defence. A quick-fire double in the second half sealed the tie, as Sintrense punished a tiring home side with two well-taken goals on the counter-attack.

Key moments

• Caldas take the lead: A neat first-time pass split the Sintrense defence, and the forward finished calmly past the advancing goalkeeper.
• Immediate response: Sintrense equalised from a corner, with the centre-back rising highest at the near post.
• Second-half sucker punch: Two goals in the space of seven minutes ended Caldas’ hopes of a cup upset.

How the match was won

Sintrense’s discipline out of possession proved crucial. They allowed Caldas to have the ball in non-threatening areas, then broke with speed and precision. The away side’s wide forwards caused constant problems in transition, and their ability to score from set pieces added another dimension to their play.

Standout players

Sintrense’s attacking midfielder was the standout player on the pitch, registering a goal and an assist. His vision and direct running opened up the Caldas defence repeatedly. For the hosts, the centre-forward worked hard but received little service as the game wore on.

What it means

The Portuguese Cup is always a competition full of unpredictability, and this tie was a reminder of that. While Caldas can look back on a spirited first-half display, Sintrense showed the ruthlessness needed to progress. The visitors will now turn their attention to the next round, carrying the momentum of a strong away victory with them.