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Brazil’s Men’s test team is no longer coached by Fernando Portugal. The CBRu thanked Portugal for his time in charge of the test team. He has been replaced by former Brazilian test player Josh Reeves. The New Zealander will take charge of the Brazil XV in October with a permanent head coach to be appointed thereafter.
Fernando Portugal is no longer the coach of Os Tupis nor of Brazil’s professional team that competes in the Súper Liga Americana de Rugby (SLAR). A new coach will be appointed for both the Men’s test team and Os Cobras Brasil XV.
The change comes following Brazil’s unbeaten campaign at the South American Tri Nations in August in Barranquilla. Portugal coached Brazil to the title with wins over Paraguay and Colombia.
Fernando Portugal was a pioneer in Brazil. He was a professional who played in Italy long before the arrival of SLAR. He captained Brazil at a time when the sport was entirely amateur in the country. The center was often in a league of his own while wearing Brazil’s rugby jersey. He played for Brazil from 2001-2015.
During his time playing for Brazil, Portugal competed in Rugby Sevens at two Pan American Games. He also competed in Rugby World Cup qualifiers and in numerous home matches and tours.
Reeves played under Portugal for Os Cobras and when Portugal was the assistant coach of Os Tupis. The New Zealander also has professional experience playing in North America. He is a former Utah Warrior in Major League Rugby.
