How Second Division Torreense Are Preparing For The Europa League

A Historic Cup Win

Torreense shocked Portuguese football last season. The second division club won the Taça de Portugal by defeating top flight giants Sporting CP. A late extra time goal from 38 year old Cape Verde full back Stopira sealed the historic victory.

This win made Torreense the first team from outside the top division to win the cup. It also earned them a spot in the UEFA Europa League. Local supporter Paulo Sarreira remembered the wild celebrations in Torres Vedras. He said the party went on until 4 in the morning with fireworks and music.

The Reality of European Football

Despite the cup glory, Torreense missed out on promotion. They lost a playoff against Casa Pia, meaning they must play their European matches while competing in the second tier.

Their campaign starts this Thursday against Norwegian side Lillestrøm. They will also face major opponents like Sunderland, Real Sociedad, and Celtic in the league phase.

Torreense cannot even play at their own ground. Their stadium only holds 2,500 people, which does not meet European standards. They have to play their home games 50 miles away in Leiria. Sarreira admitted this is frustrating but believes the experience will still benefit the players.

The Threat of Relegation

Playing in Europe brings a tough schedule. Torreense have struggled at the start of their domestic season, winning just one of their first six league matches. They are currently hovering near the relegation zone.

Other clubs have suffered under similar pressure. Liechtenstein side FC Vaduz played in the Swiss second tier when they reached the European group stage in 2022.

Former Vaduz player Franz Burgmeier explained how hard it was. He noted that playing big European games on Thursday followed by small league games on Sunday was difficult for the players. Vaduz ended up in a relegation battle and finished eighth in their league. Torreense will hope to avoid a similar fate.