 His stint with the Sado River side proved a nightmare, as he failed to score a single Primeira Liga goal in two seasons combined, also receiving his marching orders in a 1–2 away loss against C.F.Os Belenenses on 11 April 2009; he netted twice in official games during his stint, one in the Portuguese Cup and another in the domestic League Cup, with his team winning the latter competition.In the 2009 summer, Branco returned to his country, signing with Criciúma Esporte Clube.