Torreense, a second-division club from Torres Vedras near Lisbon, stunned Sporting CP by winning the Portuguese Cup final 2-1 after extra time on May 25, 2026 [1, 2]. Kevin Zohi opened the scoring for Torreense in the third minute, but Luis Suarez equalised for Sporting in the 53rd minute [1, 2].
The decisive moment came during extra time when Sporting's Maximiliano Araujo was sent off after conceding a penalty. Torreense captain Stopira converted the spot-kick to clinch the victory [1, 2]. Stopira, recently named in Cape Verde’s World Cup squad, expressed his joy, saying, "I am speechless with excitement. I just want to thank everyone, the entire technical staff, and all players. It’s been a long journey with huge effort, and we deserve this title. The match isn’t over yet, as we will face Casa Pia in the second leg to fight for promotion and complete a perfect season" [2].
This marks Torreense’s first major trophy in the club’s history, which sources differ on whether spans 70 or 109 years. The club was previously runners-up in the Portuguese Cup in 1956 [1, 2]. Torreense plays in a stadium that holds approximately 2,500 spectators [1, 2].
Sporting CP finished second in the league this season, having won the league and cup double last year [1]. Despite the loss, Sporting remains a top contender in Portuguese football.
By winning the cup, Torreense qualifies for next season’s UEFA Europa League [1, 2]. They also have a chance to be promoted to Portugal’s top flight if they win the upcoming second-leg playoff against Casa Pia, following a 0-0 draw in the first leg. That match is scheduled for May 29, 2026 [1, 2].
