C.S. Marítimo prepares for Nacional derby amid pre‑season focus on new signings

Midfielder Raphael Guzzo said Marítimo’s priority this week is “maintenance” ahead of the upcoming derby with Nacional, describing the match as vital for the club and the island. He added that the pre‑season has gone well and the team wants to be competitive for the league opener against Casa Pia.

In the recent 0‑0 friendly against AD Machico, coach Mitchel Van der Gaag fielded three of the six recent signings – Rafael Fernandes, Maurice Boakye and Gábor Szalai – while newcomer Maxime Dominguez missed all pre‑season games after a muscle injury and Tomás Tavares, presented on match day, has not yet debuted. Guzzo emphasized the importance of fan support and the club’s strong identity as they head back to the Primeira Liga.