Estrela vs Naval 1893

Pepa's half-time substitutions unlocked the game. Estrela had controlled territory in the first period but lacked incision against a deep-lying Naval backline. The introduction of Alisson Souza and Robinho — both Brazilian attackers who featured for the club last season — instantly changed the dynamic. Their two goals in rapid succession between the 70th and 72nd minutes turned controlled possession into a decisive victory.

Alisson Souza (Estrela da Amadora) — scored the opener and was a constant threat after coming on. The forward, who made only five appearances last season, reminded Pepa of his finishing ability with a composed 70th-minute strike.

Robinho (Estrela da Amadora) — needed just two minutes to make his mark. His clinical finish for the second goal effectively ended the contest and capped a sharp cameo off the bench.

Pepa (Estrela da Amadora manager) — after a 5-2 defeat to Benfica on 8 July in his first pre-season game, the new coach saw his rotation and tactical tweaks pay off. Managing minutes across a 120-minute game gave him useful data on squad depth.

The 2-0 scoreline reflects the gulf between a Liga Portugal Betclic side and a Campeonato de Portugal (fourth-tier) opponent, but the 70th-minute opening goal shows Estrela took time to find their rhythm. A goalless first half, despite territorial dominance, pointed to the same lack of sharpness that plagued the Benfica defeat. The two-minute, two-goal burst after half-time substitutions was the statistical inflection point — Estrela's shot conversion jumped from zero in the first 60 minutes to two goals on limited chances after the changes.

Estrela da Amadora are in the middle of a five-day training camp at the Centro de Estágios Rosa Náutica in Quiaios, running until Friday 17 July. The win is their first of pre-season after the 5-2 loss to Benfica on 8 July. Pepa's side have four more friendlies scheduled before the competitive season begins: Casa Pia (18 July), Nacional (23 July), Belenenses and Lusitano GC. Estrela's Liga Portugal Betclic campaign opens at home against Sporting.

Naval 1893, who compete in the fourth-tier Campeonato de Portugal, used the fixture as valuable preparation against higher-level opposition.

A controlled, professional workout for Estrela da Amadora. The first-half bluntness is a mild concern for a side rebuilding under a new manager, but the quick-fire double from Alisson and Robinho demonstrated the quality gap when Pepa called on his more experienced attackers. The 120-minute format served its purpose: fitness minutes for the squad, and a first win on the board.