Rafik Guitane scores late to rescue Estoril in Portuguese Cup

Rafik Guitane scored an 89th-minute equaliser to rescue Estoril from defeat against Salgueiros in the Portuguese Cup before his side progressed to the next round with a 3-1 victory in the penalty shootout.

The Algerian international came off the bench in the 67th minute and made a decisive impact, keeping Estoril in the competition after they appeared to be heading for elimination.

Estoril were trailing 1-0 in the 80th minute following an extraordinary goal scored from the middle of the pitch. With time running out, Guitane stepped up to restore parity and force the tie into extra time.

The 26-year-old found the net in the 89th minute after making an intelligent run into the penalty area. Positioned near the penalty spot, he connected with a low cross and directed the ball past the goalkeeper to bring Estoril level.

His intervention proved crucial for the Portuguese side, who had struggled to find a response before the Algerian forward’s introduction.

Neither team managed to score during the additional 30 minutes, despite Guitane creating another promising opportunity for Estoril.

In the 114th minute, he produced another fine attacking move to set up teammate Xavi Sintes, but the chance was missed, leaving the contest to be decided by a penalty shootout.

Guitane stepped forward to take responsibility from the spot but saw his effort strike the crossbar. However, his miss did not prove costly, as Estoril won the shootout 3-1 to secure their place in the next round.

Goalkeeper Martin Turk played a key role in the victory, making two saves during the shootout to help his team overcome Salgueiros.

Despite missing his penalty, Guitane’s late equaliser ensured Estoril remained in contention and underlined his growing influence in the team’s attack.

The Algerian has now scored in consecutive appearances after finding the net in Estoril’s league match against Académico de Viseu on 10 October.

That goal came in his previous outing, and his latest strike adds to the positive signs surrounding his return to form.

Guitane has made seven appearances in the Portuguese Liga this season, starting four matches and accumulating 369 minutes of playing time. Before his latest cup goal, he had scored once in the league.

His strike against Salgueiros takes his tally to two goals across all competitions this season, with the forward continuing to contribute at an important stage of Estoril’s campaign.