Portugal’s women’s national football team secured a 3-1 victory over Malta in the final match of the Group B3 of the Women’s Nations League. This win ensures Portugal’s unbeaten run in the group stage and their advancement to the play-offs for the Euro 2025 qualification. The match took place at the Estádio Dr. Magalhães Pessoa in Leiria on Tuesday afternoon.
Key Takeaways
- Portugal defeated Malta 3-1 in the Women’s Nations League.
- The match was held at the Estádio Dr. Magalhães Pessoa in Leiria.
- Portugal finished the group stage unbeaten and advanced to the Euro 2025 play-offs.
Match Overview
The game started on a high note for Portugal, with Ana Capeta scoring the opening goal in the 7th minute. However, Malta quickly responded with an equalizer from Maria Farrugia in the 16th minute. Stephanie Ribeiro, making her debut for Portugal, restored the lead in the 28th minute. Jéssica Silva sealed the victory with a goal in the 86th minute.
Tactical Analysis
Portugal’s head coach, Francisco Neto, made several changes to the starting lineup, resting key players and giving opportunities to new talents. The team adopted a 3-5-2 formation, which allowed for dynamic wing play and solid defensive coverage. Despite Malta’s efforts, Portugal’s superior tactical discipline and individual skill levels were evident throughout the match.
Player Performances
- Ana Capeta: Opened the scoring and was a constant threat in the attacking third.
- Maria Farrugia: Scored Malta’s only goal, showcasing her ability to capitalize on set-piece opportunities.
- Stephanie Ribeiro: Impressed on her debut, scoring the second goal and contributing significantly to the team’s offensive play.
- Jéssica Silva: Came off the bench to score the final goal, adding energy and creativity to the attack.
Group B3 Standings
| Team | Matches Played | Wins | Draws | Losses | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Portugal | 6 | 5 | 1 | 0 | 16 |
| Northern Ireland | 6 | 3 | 1 | 2 | 10 |
| Bosnia-Herzegovina | 6 | 2 | 1 | 3 | 7 |
| Malta | 6 | 0 | 1 | 5 | 1 |
Looking Ahead
With this victory, Portugal has secured their place in the play-offs for the Euro 2025 qualification. The team will find out their next opponents in the draw scheduled for Friday in Nyon. The play-offs will be a crucial step for Portugal as they aim to qualify for the Euro 2025, set to be held in Switzerland.
Conclusion
Portugal’s 3-1 win over Malta not only highlights their dominance in Group B3 but also sets a positive tone for their upcoming challenges in the Euro 2025 play-offs. The team’s blend of experienced players and emerging talents bodes well for their future prospects.
Sources
- Portugal-Malta, 3-1 ‘Navegadoras’ terminam primeira fase de apuramento sem derrotas | Abola.pt, A Bola.
- Liga das Nações feminina: Portugal-Malta, 3-1 (crónica) – TVI NotÃcias, TVI.
- Portugal triunfa 3-1 sobre Malta, RTP.
- Portugal vence Malta e fecha apuramento para o Europeu sem derrotas, NotÃcias ao Minuto.