Sp. de Braga won the League Cup for the third time, beating Estoril on penalties, a team that fought very well in the final and converted well in the defeat. At the end of regulation time, both teams tied 1:1.
Estoril scored early from Cassiano’s penalty in the 6th minute after a foul by Jose Fonte on the striker. Braga did not concede a goal and approached the opponent’s penalty area with danger. In the 20th minute, Ricardo Horta equalized with a fantastic first-time strike from Zalazar’s corner. Minho’s team continued to search for a second goal, but Estorilistas defended valiantly and threatened Mateus’ goal at every opportunity through Gitane and Mateus Fernandes. At half-time the game ended in a draw, but it was Braga who had the ball and had more attacking actions.
In the second half, Estoril started better, not allowing Minho’s players to play and creating interesting plays and transitions in defense. Arthur Jorge was the first to make his move and brought the fast Roger onto the field; Vasco Sebra responded with a double change, introducing Holsgrove and Marquez into the game, freshening up the attacking line. Estoril controlled Braga and Arthur Jorge had to change again, bringing on Pizzi and Al Musrati. From this point on, Braga took control of the game, but the Canarinhos defended well and eliminated the danger created by Migno’s team. In the last ten minutes, both teams played out a penalty shootout. Thiago Araujo was the only one to lose and Braga celebrated the victory.
Author: Luis Oliveira
Source: CM Jornal
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