Portuguese Women's Third Division Championship
The Portuguese Women's Third Division Championship serves as the entry-level tier in Portugal's women's football pyramid, featuring regional teams hungry for promotion. It nurtures emerging talents and grassroots clubs, underpinning the growth of women's soccer in the nation. Seasons kick off in September and run through May, with games on modest community pitches.
History and foundation
Launched in the early 2010s amid rising popularity of women's football, the division was created by the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) to broaden the competitive structure. A 2016 overhaul expanded it to 24 teams. Notably, in 2020 amid COVID disruptions, Leiria Women's FC dominated, winning every home game. Graduates like Estoril Sporting's squad have climbed to the Second Division in 2022.
Tournament format
Structured into four groups of six teams each, playing a double round-robin (10 matches per team). Group winners advance to playoffs for promotion to the Second Division, while bottom sides face relegation to regional leagues. Fixtures are weekend-focused, prioritizing player development.
Interesting facts
Average goals per match hover at 2.8, showcasing tactical, defensive play typical of Portuguese football. Top scorers include Ana Soares (Leiria FF) with 18 goals in 2023 and Maria Fernandes (Gondomar) with 15. Standouts: midfielder Sofia Pinto, now at Benfica B, and goalkeeper Isabel Rodrigues, holding the clean sheet record. The league has fed talents to the national team, such as forward Jessica Silva.