DILI, 26 July 2025 (TATOLI) – Portugal’s U-16 national team clinched third place at the XII CPLP Games after defeating host nation Timor-Leste 4–1 in a penalty shootout, following a 1–1 draw in regular time at Dili Municipal Stadium on Saturday morning.
The match began with both teams adopting a cautious approach, maintaining a steady tempo and creating few chances during the opening 20 minutes.
Around the 29th minute, the game intensified as both sides launched quick counterattacks in search of a breakthrough.
Despite the growing momentum, the first half ended scoreless, with neither team able to convert their chances.
Portugal made several attacking substitutions early in the second half, but it was Timor-Leste who struck first, as forward Manuel Reinaldo opened the scoring in the 61st minute to give the host nation a 1–0 lead.
Portugal responded swiftly, and just four minutes later, Sousa equalized with a precise finish in the 65th minute, making it 1–1.
Despite both teams pushing for a winner in the closing stages, including the added time, the match ended in a draw, sending the game to penalties.
In the shootout, Portugal held their nerve, converting four spot-kicks, while Timor-Leste faltered under pressure, missing key attempts.
The result sealed a 4–1 shootout victory for Portugal, securing third place in the football tournament at the CPLP Games.
TATOLI
