CD Nacional is a professional soccer team based in Funchal, Madeira, Portugal. Founded in 1910, the club has a rich history and is one of the most successful teams in the region.
The team's colors are black and white, and they are known by their nickname "Alvinegros" or "Black and Whites." CD Nacional plays their home matches at the Estádio da Madeira, which has a seating capacity of around 5,000 spectators.
CD Nacional has a strong fan base and enjoys a fierce rivalry with other teams in the region, particularly with Marítimo, another club from Madeira. The matches between these two teams, known as the "Derby da Madeira," are highly anticipated and always draw a passionate crowd.
Over the years, CD Nacional has achieved several notable accomplishments. They have won the Campeonato de Portugal, the top-tier league in Portuguese football, on three occasions. Additionally, the team has had success in cup competitions, reaching the final of the Taça de Portugal in 1977 and the semi-finals in 2003.
CD Nacional has also participated in European competitions, including the UEFA Cup and the UEFA Europa League. Their most memorable European campaign came in the 2009-2010 season when they reached the group stage of the Europa League, facing off against teams like Werder Bremen and Athletic Bilbao.
The team has produced talented players who have gone on to have successful careers both domestically and internationally. Notable former players include Rúben Micael, who represented the Portuguese national team, and Nuno Pinto, who played for several top-flight clubs in Portugal.
CD Nacional continues to compete in the top-tier league of Portuguese football, striving to achieve success and make their mark in both domestic and international competitions. With a passionate fan base and a rich history, the team remains an integral part of the soccer culture in Madeira.