Nico González's heady decisive goal lifted FC Porto over Maccabi Tel Aviv 1-0, securing their spot in the playoffs of the Europa League. After weeks of tumultuous performances, the Portuguese giants had faced the prospect of elimination, but González's prowess ensured they avoided disaster.
The match, played at Partizan Stadium in Belgrade, Serbia, was as tense as anticipated. With only victory needed—anything less would have left them relying on other results—the stage was set for Porto to either redeem their season or face disheartening fallout. Standing at the helm of Porto's challenge was new Argentine coach Martín Anselmi, who aimed to instill fresh energy after the club's disappointing results under former coach Vítor Bruno.
Porto, facing mounting pressure and with several key players sidelined due to injuries, started the match with a somewhat experimental setup. Although Maccabi Tel Aviv was eliminated from the tournament and struggled with form, they approached the game aggressively, seeking to take advantage of Porto’s frailties. The home side’s early high press initially threw the Portuguese team off balance.
Given the backdrop of everything hanging in the balance, the match began with Porto struggling for rhythm. Early chances were scarce, and the team was unable to penetrate Maccabi's well-organized defense. More than just technical adjustments, the need for morale and confidence loomed large as the minutes ticked on. The first half saw few clear chances, with the standout moment for Maccabi coming from Dor Turgeman, whose attempt just before halftime forced Porto's keeper, Diogo Costa, to stretch to his limits.
Following the break, the narrative of the match took a notable turn. Porto significantly increased their intensity and began generating opportunities. Understanding the stakes, João Mário delivered a perfectly timed cross at the 57th minute. González, who had repositioned himself well, rose above the defenders to head the ball past Maccabi keeper Sluga. This goal not only marked his first European goal for Porto but also reignited hope within the squad.
Celebration for González was heartfelt; he cradled the ball under his shirt and gestured as if to celebrate impending fatherhood, igniting joy among fans who had been yearning for good news from the beleaguered team. Yet, the goal did not erase the shadows of doubt, as Maccabi attempted to level the score. The Israeli side pressed hard, culminating with fierce chances, including one shot by Davida ringing off the crossbar.
Porto's defensive frailties came to the fore late on when all seemed lost. Just as Maccabi finally breached Porto's stagnant defense with a goal by Peretz, excitement turned to despair as the linesman's flag called the goal offside, saving Porto from what would have been utter humiliation.
With the match coming to an end, Porto was out of sorts. They managed to hold on to their lead but not without suiting the anxiety of their fans—who were beginning to dread another tales of inconsistencies. The final whistle confirmed their passage to the Europa League playoffs, putting them on track to meet either AS Roma or Viktoria Plzen.
The victory offered much-needed reprieve for Anselmi, who had the heavy task of restoring stability to the club. While he had not changed much tactically, the displayed effort hinted at potential rebirth for the team under his watch. Now, Porto awaits the playoff draw, hoping to secure their footing once more on the European stage.
This result marked not only the beginning of Anselmi's tenure but solidified the role of Nico González as one of Porto’s key players—one who, with sustained performance, could very well lead the charge for the Dragaos as they seek redemption and glory once more.