Portugal’s national Pitch & Putt team earned a thrilling victory at the XIV Match España-Portugal by defeating Spain with a final score of 7-5. The competition took place at Sherry Golf in Jerez de la Frontera and has been a major highlight for amateur golf in the region since it began in 2007. This year’s event put a spotlight on the finest Portuguese talent competing on Spanish soil.
The Portuguese squad was composed of Arnaldo Paredes, António Tendeiro, Hugo Espírito Santo, and João Monteiro from Quinta das Lágrimas, along with Tomás Ribeiro from Paredes and Matteo Balzer from Amendoeira. To provide a complete test of skill and teamwork, the tournament used several different playing formats including Fourball, Foursomes, and singles matches.
The first day of competition ended in a 3-3 tie after Portugal won the Fourball matches 2-1 and Spain took the Foursomes matches with that same score. This deadlock meant that the individual singles matches on the final day would decide the winner. Portugal rose to the challenge and dominated the final round by winning three key matchups. Tomás Ribeiro defeated Cesar Crespo 2/1, Hugo Espírito Santo beat Cesar Fernandez de Caleya 3&2, and Matteo Balzer edged out Hugo Carro Cortes 2&1.
With two other matches ending in ties and only one loss for the team, Portugal finished the final day with a 4-2 advantage. This strong performance secured the overall 7-5 victory. This win is significant because it marks Portugal’s fifth historical triumph in the event and their third win in a row. It further reinforces the country’s growing reputation in the international amateur golf scene.
Beyond the competition, the event serves as a celebration of friendship and culture while highlighting the beautiful golf destinations found in Spain. For golf enthusiasts planning a holiday, this tournament shows why the region of Andalusia is an ideal choice. With high-quality venues like Sherry Golf and a variety of other courses, visitors can enjoy top-tier golf alongside rich local culture, stunning scenery, and exceptional food. Spain continues to offer some of the best experiences for golfers who want both a competitive challenge and a relaxing vacation.
