After Benfica, Rui Moreira is Champion in Brazil

Portuguese coach Rui Moreira has made history by leading Dentil Praia Clube to victory in the Brazilian Women's Superliga. The Minas Gerais-based team triumphed over Gerdau Minas in a decisive 3-0 final, with set scores of 29-27, 25-21, and 25-13.

This victory caps off a challenging journey, with a significant highlight being their semi-final performance. To reach the final, Dentil Praia Clube had to overcome Sesc RJ Flamengo, a team coached by Bernardo Rezende - Bernardinho - and the regular season winners, in an epic 3-2 victory in the decisive third match.

Following the championship win, Rui Moreira described the season as "very tough, with many ups and downs, a lot of overcoming challenges, and it ended in the best possible way." The Portuguese coach emphasized his team's performance in the final, stating they were "superior, tactically disciplined," and demonstrated unwavering mental strength.

Rui Moreira's arrival in Brazil was met with some skepticism. The coach himself admitted to being "heavily criticized and discredited for being a Portuguese coach." However, the pressure served as motivation, and the final victory against an opponent they hadn't beaten all season was their answer on the court.

For the coach, this title holds significance beyond personal achievement. "I am very happy, above all, to have put Portugal on the world volleyball map," he stated, emphasizing that "there is quality in volleyball in Portugal too." Moreira also made a point of mentioning other successful compatriots: "André Sá, two days ago, was champion in France. Ricardo Lemos had an excellent season in Spain."

With this victory, Dentil Praia Clube has secured their participation in the Supercopa, the South American Championship, and the 2027 Club World Championship. The Portuguese coach highlighted the team's unity as a decisive factor, stating they never let anyone fall. Rui Moreira now hopes this success will "open the door for more Portuguese coaches" abroad.