CD Nacional

CD Nacional is a Portuguese sports club based in Funchal, on the island of Madeira, one of the main island teams in Portugal with frequent appearances in the First League.

History

Founded in 1910 in Funchal, CD Nacional is one of the most traditional clubs in Madeira, alongside Marítimo. Throughout its history, it alternated seasons in the Portuguese First League and Second League, recognized for its youth development academy. The club became world-renowned for being one of Cristiano Ronaldo's youth teams, who progressed through Nacional's categories before transferring to Sporting CP and beginning his ascent toward elite European football. Over the decades, Nacional established itself as a reference in Madeiran football, competing in Portuguese national competitions and, occasionally, European tournaments through qualification places obtained in the First League.