Moreirense promoted to Primeira Liga with thrilling six-goal Estrela victory

By Ben Knapton, Senior Reporter | 06 May 2023

Moreirense are promoted back to the Primeira Liga at the first time of asking thanks to a stunning 4-2 win over second-placed Estrela Amadora.

Moreirense have been promoted back to the Primeira Liga at the first time of asking thanks to a stunning 4-2 win over second-placed Estrela Amadora in their top-of-the-table showdown.

Needing all three points to guarantee the second division title and seal promotion with three games to spare, Moreirense's coronation would seemingly be delayed as Ronaldo Tavares struck first for Estrela in the 37th minute.

A quickfire double from Palmeiras loanee Alan in the 59th and 62nd minute would turn the tide in Moreirense's favour, and Joao Reis's red card would ostensibly extinguish Estrela's hopes of a comeback.

However, a 74th-minute own goal from Kewin saw the hosts restore parity at 2-2 heading into eight minutes of additional time, but Moreirense were not to be denied their crown and rallied late on to seal the title in thrilling circumstances.

Kobalemo Kodisang's 10th goal of the campaign restored Moreirense's one-goal lead on the 90-minute mark before veteran striker Platiny got in on the act in the fifth minute of added time, propelling Paulo Alves's team back to the top tier at the first time of asking.

Moreirense have amassed 70 points from their 31 outings so far this season, building up an unassailable 11-point lead over Estrela - who can now only accrue as many as 68 points in their remaining three games - while third-placed Farense can finish on a maximum 69.

The Green and Whites were last promoted to the Primeira Liga in 2014 and spent eight years in the top tier before being relegated with a 16th-placed finish last season.