🇵🇹 Eurovision 2026 Rehearsal One: Portugal slows the pace with a heartfelt and traditional performance of “Rosa”

Today, the rehearsals for Eurovision 2026 continue in Vienna. Countries rehearsing on Day 1 include Moldova, Sweden, Croatia, Greece, Portugal, Georgia, and Finland. The second to rehearse today is Sweden’s Felicia. Rehearsal’s pictures will be out in approximately 24 hours.

What did we learn about Bandidos do Cante’s staging?

After the intensity of the earlier performances, Portugal does something very deliberate, it takes a step back. “Rosa” begins with a long, uninterrupted camera movement, gradually revealing each member of Bandidos do Cante as they sing together. The effect is simple but powerful: instead of quick cuts or big staging tricks, the focus is entirely on the voices and the unity of the group.

There’s a quiet confidence in the way the performance is presented. The group stands together almost like a choir, delivering the song with a sense of pride that feels rooted in something deeper than just the competition.

Fans of Festival da Canção will recognise a familiar moment as well. The violinist returns briefly, adding an extra musical layer that lifts the atmosphere and gives the performance a more emotional, almost intimate feel.

The closing moments bring a subtle visual payoff. The LED backdrop evolves, with imagery that reflects the song’s title, adding a final touch that ties the performance together without overpowering it.

Who are Bandidos do Cante?

Bandidos do Cante are a five-piece vocal group from the Alentejo region of Portugal. Forming in 2022, the band is made up of Miguel Costa, Duarte Farias, Francisco Pestana, Francisco Raposo and Luís Aleixo. The band first released covers, before debuting original music in 2024, with their song “Amigos Coloridos” becoming the most listened to song on national radio for some time. The band released their first album in January 2026, right before their Festival da Canção participation.

Portugal’s Eurovision Journey

Portugal debuted in the Eurovision Song Contest with António Calvário’s “Oração” in 1964. Since then, Portugal has participated in the competition 55 times – appearing the final 46 times. Their only win in the competition came in 2017 with Salvador Sobral, performing his heart-wrenching song “Amar Pelos Dois”.

Portugal’s most recent participation was with NAPA with the song “Deslocado”. The band managed to qualify for the Grand Final and once there, they finished in 21st place. They received a total of 50 points, of which 37 points came from the jury and 13 points came the televote.

What do you think of “Rosa”? Does Bandidos do Cante stand a chance of winning? Let us know your thoughts! Also, be sure to follow “That Eurovision Site” on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok as we prepare for Eurovision 2026!

News Source: EBU

Photo Credit: Sarah Louise Bennett / EBU