European League campaign kicks off in Vila do Conde for Team Portugal
News
The Portuguese women’s national team begins preparations this Monday for what promises to be a historic and demanding 2026 season. With a unified European League format on the horizon, the ‘Portuguese Warriors’ are ready to fight for a spot among Europe’s elite.
Based at the Santo Tirso Municipal Sports Pavillion, the squad faces a new unified league format following the CEV’s deep restructuring of the competition. This system merges the former Golden and Silver Leagues, thereby serving as the primary gateway to EuroVolley 2028, with four direct berths at stake.
Fresh faces and ambition
Head coach Hugo Silva has called up 15 athletes, opting for continuity while embracing renewal. The squad features debuts for 22-year-olds Rita Campos and Joana Milho, as well as for 18-year-old rising talent Inês Campos.
Hugo Silva“This will be our toughest challenge yet. Facing high-level opponents like Hungary and Romania is essential for the growth of women’s Volleyball in Portugal. This competition will reveal the true character of this group.”
Head coach of Team Portugal
Star opposite Júlia Kavalenka, currently playing in Italy, highlights the importance of the home crowd: “The Portuguese fans will be our ‘seventh player’ as we look to start the competition with maximum strength.”
Tournament structure
Portugal will host Tournament 5 in Vila do Conde (June 5-7), facing North Macedonia and Hungary. Afterwards, the team travels to Greece and then to the site of the Preliminary Round winner. The mission is to finish among the top four to qualify for the semis scheduled for late June and early July.
Roster
Setters: Ana Figueiras, Mariana Garcez
Opposites: Júlia Kavalenka, Maria Reis Lopes
Outside Hitters: Ana Rui Monteiro, Alice Clemente, Inês Campos, Margarida Maia, Joana Milho
Middle Blockers: Amanda Cavalcanti, Joana Garcez, Marlene Pereira, Raissa Cassamá
Liberos: Matilde Calado, Rita Campos