hicapaul

Portugal

The bwinLiga (Bet and Win Liga, damn those sponsers!) has produced such gems as Deco, Rui Costa and Victor Baia, and the big mouth of football, Jose Mouriniho. Although seen by many as a feeder league, it remains one of the most stylish and diverse, if not competative leagues in Europe today.

As you proberly already know, Porto have been the dominant team in recent times dispite Benfica and Sporting's best efforts.
The league host 16 teams, playing from late August to mid December, then a months break until mid January, with the season finishing in late May. Due to the recent success of Portugese teams in European competition, there are 3 Champions League spots and 2 UEFA cup spots up for grabs, as well as one for the Inter-Toto Cup. Just two teams are relegated from the league.

The transfer window is the same as England, and there are no restrictions on the country of origin for players. Although a maximum of 50 players can be in each squad. This can prove a little tricky at the top clubs, due to the lack of youth teams. As Portugal and Brazil share the same language, it does help to attract the latest Brazilian wonderkids. Attracting top players isnt really difficult, but you may find matching their wage demands a problem.

Overall, this is a good challenge to break the big 3, and with the quality throught all teams in the league, pushing for Euopean honours should be a real target.

A few players to look at:

Miguel Veloso (Sporting)
Amoreirinha (CFR Cluj)
Rui Patricio (Sporting)
Ariza Makukala (on loan at Martimo)


Boa Sorte!