Jovane Cabral and Jefferson Encada combine to end Primeira Liga winless skid for Estrela

Jovane Cabral put an end to a four-match winless streak for Estrela da Amadora on Saturday in Portugal’s Primeira Liga with his second half match winner in a 1-0 home victory over Santa Clara.

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Jovane Cabral 59′
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The club’s reigning Player of the Year rose to the occasion when his teammates needed it most with a powerful and perfectly placed header close to the hour mark. The Cape Verde national team forward got on the end of a cross from Guinea-Bissau international Jefferson Encada for a goal that earned him Man of the Match honors.

Hosts Estrela struggled to assert themselves and allowed relegation fighters Santa Clara to gain a foothold at the Estádio José Gomes. After a scoreless first half, concerns remained as the visitors continued to strengthen their advantage in possession.

But these types of matches are a perfect opportunity for an individual moment to make the difference and the hosts found a way to snatch victory. Former Egyptian Premier League star Encada was given plenty of space to put in an early cross and the former Pharco FC player’s delivery was precise for Cabral, whose snap header beat goalkeeper Gabriel Batista in the Santa Clara goal.

Also of note was the debut of Mozambique national team star Bruno Langa, who came on at the half for the victors after arriving on loan from LaLiga 2 club Almería just before the conclusion of the January transfer window.

After a winless start to 2026, Estrela earn a much-needed win to secure their hold in 11th place on the 18-team top flight table. Next up for the club from the Lisbon area is a trip to northern Portugal where they will face Vitória de Guimarães.