Rio Ave Falls to CD Santa Clara in Taça Revelação

Rio Ave's U23 team lost to CD Santa Clara in the Taça Revelação, after a 3-3 tie at the end of extra time. The game started with CD Santa Clara scoring the first goal in the middle of the first half. Despite the intense search for a goal, Rio Ave FC went into the break with a disadvantage.

What happened?

Rio Ave FC tried to react, but an unfortunate play by Pedro Virgínia allowed CD Santa Clara to score 0-2. However, the Rio Ave response was immediate and overwhelming. Francisco Brás scored with a powerful shot and, shortly after coming off the bench, Franco Pinho restored the equality.

Why is it important for Rio Ave?

Rio Ave FC's U23 team showed a huge capacity for resilience, coming very close to securing a spot in the next phase. Pedro Virgínia redeemed himself with a series of decisive interventions that kept the team alive. In extra time, Rio Ave FC came out strong and Alex Sousa completed the comeback to 3-2.

What's next?

The result marks the end of the U23 team's journey in the Taça Revelação and closes the competitive season for the squad. Rio Ave FC is proud of the path taken and the evolution shown by these young athletes throughout the championship. The first team is in 11th place in the Primeira Liga, with 34 points, after 30 games, and a recent form of DWLWW. The last result was a 1-1 tie with Casa Pia, on May 16, 2026.