The Portuguese Football League, also known as the Primeira Liga, is a treasure trove of talented footballers waiting to be discovered. While many fantasy football enthusiasts focus on the more prominent names, there are several under-the-radar players who have the potential to make a significant impact on your fantasy team.
Costinha - Rio Ave
The 24-year-old right back for Rio Ave had a difficult campaign, marred by a transfer embargo during the summer and a series of unfavourable outcomes. Nonetheless, Costinha has emerged as a standout performer for the Vilacondenses.
He’s made a big difference with four goals and five assists, especially since the team has only scored 35 goals all season.
Diogo Costa - FC Porto
Diogo Costa is a goalkeeper for Primeira Liga club Porto and the Portugal national team. He was born in Switzerland to Portuguese parents and has played for Portugal from youth levels, winning the 2016 European Championship with the under-17 team and the 2018 European Championship with the under-19 team. He also helped the under-21 team reach the finals at the 2021 European Championship. Costa debuted for the senior Portugal team in 2021 and played in the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
In the 2021-22 season, Costa became Porto’s first-choice goalkeeper when Marchesín was injured. During last year’s Champions League, he saved two consecutive penalties from Hans Vanaken and Noa Lang. He set a record as the first goalkeeper to save three consecutive penalties in the competition. His performances in the group stages were crucial, helping Porto win their group and advance to the round of sixteen after a 2-1 victory over Atlético Madrid. During these games, he made 43 saves and earned a man of the match award.
Ousmane Diomande - Sporting CP
Sporting has allowed a notable number of goals this season, not due to defensive weaknesses but rather because of its bold, high-energy style of play. Diomande has emerged as a force in defense, combining his commanding physical presence and speed with remarkable vision and skill on the ball.
In a league where pressing tactics are becoming more prevalent, Sporting sets the benchmark for navigating tight situations, with Diomande playing a crucial role in this aspect of their game.
While the big names often steal the spotlight, the under-the-radar players can elevate your squad. Consider using resources like the DraftKings promo code to enhance your fantasy experience and gain an edge over your competitors.
António Silva - Benfica
António Silva plays as a center-back for Primeira Liga club Benfica and the Portugal national team. Silva came up through Benfica’s youth ranks, standing out with the reserve team and playing a key role in their UEFA Youth League win in 2021–22, Benfica’s first European trophy in 60 years. He was quickly moved up to the first team, making his professional debut at 18 and winning the league title in his first season.
Silva has represented Portugal at various youth levels and was called to the senior squad for the 2022 FIFA World Cup, where he debuted shortly after.
Silva was almost ever-present for Benfica throughout the domestic season, playing nearly every minute of their successful campaign. His strong performances helped Benfica clinch their first league title in four years with a 3-0 victory over Santa Clara on the final day.
Silva has been outstanding for a Benfica side that has only conceded 27 goals, thanks to his solid partnership with Otamendi in defense.
Viktor Gyökeres - Sporting CP
Sporting’s exceptional star player, Gyökeres, has come into his own this season, making a significant impact beyond scoring goals. He is the top scorer in the league with 27 league goals, but his contributions to Sporting extend far beyond scoring. Gyökeres’s dynamic movements into wide areas open space for wingers Marcus Edwards and Pedro Gonçalves while disrupting opposing defensive formations.
Even the legendary Pepe appeared ordinary when facing Gyökeres, whose remarkable tally of 41 goals and 15 assists is astonishing, especially considering his previous lack of recognition in the league.
Ricardo Horta - SC Braga
Ricardo Horta’s exceptional talent is widely acknowledged. He stands out as the top player beyond the dominant trio in Portugal. Once again, he delivers a stellar performance in a team that consistently improves each season under the guidance of a manager who maximizes Horta’s potential.
With an impressive record of 12 goals and 13 assists, he remains Braga’s most crucial player, integral to their success and the execution of their strategies.
Final Thoughts
The Primeira Liga is a goldmine of hidden football gems waiting to be unearthed. The aforementioned under-the-radar players have the potential to make a significant impact on your fantasy team. By keeping an eye on these players and incorporating them into your fantasy squad, you could be the one to uncover the next big star in the world of football.
