The Lusitanos are Portugal’s development side and boast a squad packed with international talent. They are distinct from Portugal’s senior national team, more commonly known as Os Lobos, who famously faced the Springboks in a historic Test match in Bloemfontein in 2024.

Only six members of the squad arriving in Bloemfontein featured in that clash against the reigning world champions. 

They are Abel da Cunha, André da Cunha, Nicolas Fernandes, Pedro Lucas, Pedro Vicente and Vasco Baptista.

Tomás Appleton captained Portugal against the Springboks in 2024. Photo: Morgan Piek

One notable absentee is former Portugal captain Tomás Appleton, who led Os Lobos against the Springboks in 2024. The skilful inside centre has not travelled to South Africa for the tournament.

The squad does, however, include centre Armand Patrício, who has strong ties to the City of Roses. Patrício was educated at Grey College in Bloemfontein and represented the school’s third team, affectionately known as the Playboys. He also turns out for the Central University of Technology (CUT) Ixias.

Visiting teams

Joining Portugal in the Toyota Challenge will be Georgia’s Black Lion and Romania A, with all three visiting teams set to face the hosts, the Toyota Cheetahs, as well as the Suzuki Griquas and the Pumas. 

Significantly, Portugal, Georgia and Romania have all qualified for the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia, ensuring there will be no shortage of motivation when they take to the field in Bloemfontein.

Patrício, who was born in Stellenbosch and raised in Bloemfontein, told OFM Sport the Toyota Challenge presents a valuable opportunity to stake his claim for higher honours as he chases his dream of representing Portugal at the Rugby World Cup.

“You know, I’m incredibly excited and honoured to have been selected for the Lusitanos squad,” said Patrício.

“It is a fantastic opportunity and something I’ve been working towards for a long time. I definitely feel like I have a point to prove. I want to show what I can bring to the team and make the most of every opportunity I’m given.”

Sergio Moreira of the Griffons and formerly of the Cheetahs is not in the Lusitanos squad. Photo: Morgan Piek

“My focus now is just working hard, performing well and putting my hand up for future selection. Especially with the World Cup coming up, representing Portugal on that stage would be a dream come true.

“So, I’m determined to do everything I can to contribute and earn that opportunity. I’m really looking forward to the challenge and excited to see what the future holds.”

The Lusitanos will launch their Toyota Challenge campaign on Friday evening when they take on the Toyota Cheetahs at Toyota Stadium. Kick-off is at 18:00.

Lusitanos Squad – Abel da Cunha, Afonso Tapadinhas, Alfredo Almeida, André da Cunha, Armand Patrício, Diego Ruiz, Duarte Nunes, Francisco Almeida, Guilherme Costa, Hugo Aubry, Jason Cornelius, Jordan Bacon, José Lavos, Luís Avides, Martim Souto, Martim Faro, Mateus Liborio, Miguel Cristóvão, Nicolas Fernandes, Pedro Lucas, Pedro Vicente, Rodrigo Marques, Santiago Lopes, Tomás Marques, Tomás Amado, Tomás Batista, Vasco Baptista

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek dg