Portugal’s women’s futsal team has been hit by a last-minute change just ahead of the 2025 FIFA Women’s Futsal World Cup. As star player Raquel Santos suffers an injury during training, prompting Martinha from Nun’Álvares to step in. The squad, led by coach Luís Conceição, is preparing intensely in the Philippines to take on major international competition. Their first match against Tanzania scheduled for Sunday morning.
Portugal Faces Sudden Squad Change
Portugal’s futsal squad is no stranger to drama, but this time it’s not just on the pitch. Early Monday morning, the Portuguese Football Federation confirmed that Raquel Santos, one of Benfica’s standout players, sustained an injury during training in the Philippines. Ssidelining her just days before kickoff. In line with tournament regulations allowing team changes up to 24 hours before the first match, Martinha, the dynamic winger from Nun’Álvares, got the call to join the national squad.
Martinha isn’t new to big moments: she played a key role in Portugal’s World Cup qualifiers and attended the final training camp before the official roster was set. Her inclusion adds experience and flexibility to a group already brimming with ambition.
Adapting to New Challenges in Manila
The Portuguese team landed in Manila last Friday after a marathon journey spanning eight time zones. Welcomed by organizers, the squad quickly settled into their base at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium, turning it into their home turf ahead of the World Cup.
With jet lag looming, team health and performance expert Helena Fernandes explained the squad’s adaptation strategy. “Our bodies need roughly a day to adjust for every hour difference,” Fernandes said, emphasizing that athletes were advised to sleep on their first flight and stay awake on the second to better sync to local time. Each player’s response is unique, but careful planning helps the team find their rhythm quickly.
Looking Ahead
Portugal’s women’s futsal team has earned respect with finalist and semifinalist spots in recent European tournaments, and their current momentum could propel them to new heights. Placed in Group C, they’re set to face Tanzania, Japan, and New Zealand—each match presenting its own tactical puzzles and opportunities.
Last-minute changes are never easy, but Portugal’s women are demonstrating flexibility and resilience as they face the world’s best. With smart planning, talent, and the new energy Martinha brings, fans have every reason to be optimistic about their chances in Manila.
Marco Falcone