Current season
Clube Desportivo Nacional, also known as Nacional, is a Portuguese football club that has captured the hearts of fans with its rich history and remarkable achievements. Situated in Funchal, on the beautiful island of Madeira, Nacional has become a symbol of pride for the local community.
Established on December 8, 1910, Nacional has seen its fair share of ups and downs over the years. Currently competing in Liga Portugal 2, Portugal's second-tier professional football division, the club has built a loyal fan base that stands by its side through thick and thin. Playing home games at the iconic Estádio da Madeira, also known as Estádio da Choupana, Nacional creates an electric atmosphere that resonates with every supporter.
The club's colors, black and white stripes with black shorts and socks, are instantly recognizable. These colors represent the unity and determination that define Nacional both on and off the field. The club takes immense pride in having played a role in the development of one of Portugal's most renowned players, Cristiano Ronaldo. In honor of Ronaldo's illustrious career, Nacional named their youth training facilities the Cristiano Ronaldo Campus Futebol.
Manuel Machado managed Nacional in five spells between 2005 and 2021
Nacional has had remarkable success in Portuguese football. It has competed in the Primeira Liga on multiple occasions, with its best finish coming in the 2003-04 and 2008-09 seasons when the team secured fourth place. These achievements were accompanied by standout performances from players like Brazilian striker Nenê, who won the Bola da Prata for top scorer in the 2008-09 season.
The club has also made its mark in European competitions. Nacional participated in the UEFA Europa League five times between 2004 and 2014, impressing fans with their tenacity and skill. Notably, in the 2009-10 season, Nacional overcame the odds and reached the group stage after defeating Zenit St. Petersburg in the play-off round.
Nacional is not just about football. The club operates various sports teams that extend beyond the realm of the beautiful game. From beach soccer and boxing to artistic gymnastics and swimming, Nacional provides a platform for athletes to excel in a wide range of disciplines.
The Estádio da Madeira, affectionately known as the Choupana, is the beating heart of Nacional. With its renovations in 2007, including a new stand and an increased capacity of over 5,000 spectators, the stadium has become a symbol of pride for the club. The surrounding training pitches and the Cristiano Ronaldo Campus Futebol further enhance the facilities, creating an environment that fosters talent and nurtures passion.
Nacional shares a passionate rivalry with their Madeira-neighbors, Marítimo. The intensity and historic significance of this rivalry add another layer of excitement to their encounters, making them fiercely contested battles.
With a rich history, passionate fans, and a commitment to excellence, Nacional continues to make its mark in Portuguese football. The club's journey is a testament to the resilience and perseverance of the human spirit, and they stand as a shining example of what can be achieved through devotion and unwavering determination.
Club presidents
- António Ascensão Figueira (1910-1926)
- Ernesto Pelágio dos Santos (1926-1932)
- António Caldeira (1932-1936)
- Dr. Consuelo Figueira (1936-1940)
- Luís Lopes Serrão (1940-1944)
- Dr. Daniel Brazão Machado (1944-1948)
- Dr. José Telentino Costa César Abreu (1954-1958)
- Dr. António Manuel Sales Caldeira (1958-1964)
- Fernando Pereira Rebelo (1964-1965)
- Luís Lopes Serrão (1966-1969)
- Antonio Manuel Sales Caldeira (1969-1973)
- Nélio Jorge Ferraz Mendonça (1973-1993)
- Dr. Fausto Pereira (1993-1994)
- Eng. Rui António Macedo Alves (1994-2014)
- João Gris Teixeira (2014-2015)
- Eng. Rui António Macedo Alves (2015-Present)
Stadium
The Estádio da Madeira, better known as the Choupana, serves as Nacional's home ground. Situated in the midst of training pitches, the stadium has witnessed moments of triumph and celebration throughout the club's history. In 2007, the stadium underwent renovations, including the construction of a new stand and an increase in capacity to over 5,000 spectators. The total cost of these improvements amounted to €20 million.
The Choupana offers a unique matchday experience, with passionate fans filling the stands and creating an electric atmosphere. The absence of stands behind the goals, replaced by tall fences, adds to the stadium's distinctive charm. In recognition of the exceptional sports facilities, the stadium's name was changed to Estádio da Madeira.
Honours
National competitions
- Segunda Liga
- Winners: 2017-18
- Segunda Divisão B / South Zone
- Winners: 1999-2000
Regional competitions
- AF Madeira Championship
- Winners: 1934-35, 1936-37, 1938-39, 1941-42, 1942-43, 1943-44, 1968-69, 1974-75
- AF Madeira Cup
- Winners: 1943-44, 1944-45, 1973-74, 1974-75, 2001-02, 2007-08
Other
- Ramón de Carranza Trophy
- Winners: 2012
League and Cup History
Please refer to the original article for details on the club's league and cup history.
European record
Please refer to the original article for details on the club's European record.
Players
Please refer to the original article for details on the club's current squad, former coaches, and player records.
Source: Wikipedia
