FC Famalicao kicked off their pre-season preparations in emphatic style, thrashing their own reserve side Famalicao U23 5-0 in a one-sided international club friendly at their training complex on 11 July 2026. The senior team displayed sharp attacking cohesion and defensive solidity, leaving no doubt about the gulf in experience between the two sides.

Match Overview

Played on a warm summer evening, the friendly served as an ideal early fitness test for the Primeira Liga outfit. Manager Armando Evangelista fielded a strong starting XI, mixing first-team regulars with fringe players looking to stake a claim for the upcoming season. The U23 squad, packed with promising academy graduates, struggled to contain the relentless pressure from their senior counterparts.

Key Moments & Goals

• Early breakthrough: The senior side took the lead inside the first 10 minutes when a well-worked corner was headed home by centre-back Otávio.
• Second goal before half-time: A swift counter-attack ended with new signing Jhonder Cádiz slotting home from close range after a pinpoint cross from right-back Nathan.
• Third goal early in the second half: Midfielder Tomás Ribeiro curled a beautiful free-kick over the wall and into the top corner, making it 3-0.
• Fourth goal from a set piece: Another corner caused chaos in the box, and veteran defender Roderick forced the ball over the line.
• Final flourish: Substitute winger Bruno Almeida dribbled past three defenders before finishing calmly to complete the 5-0 rout.

Tactical Story

FC Famalicao dominated possession (67%) and created numerous chances, while the U23 side rarely threatened the senior goal. The match allowed Evangelista to test different formations, switching from a 4-3-3 in the first half to a 4-2-3-1 after the break. The senior team’s pressing game was particularly effective, forcing errors high up the pitch that led to two of the five goals.

Standout Players

• Tomás Ribeiro: The midfield anchor controlled the tempo and scored a stunning free-kick, showing his quality in dead-ball situations.
• Jhonder Cádiz: The Venezuelan striker looked sharp, leading the line well and finding the net with a clinical finish.
• Bruno Almeida: Came off the bench and made an immediate impact with a brilliant solo goal, highlighting his potential as a game-changer this season.

Season Impact

While only a friendly, the result provides a confidence boost for FC Famalicao as they build towards the 2026-27 Primeira Liga campaign. For the U23 players, the experience of facing the senior team will be invaluable for their development. The match also gave the coaching staff a clear look at squad depth and tactical options ahead of more challenging pre-season tests.