The 19-year-old was stabbed to death next to the Academic Bar of the University of Minho, in April 2025. The suspect, who decided to remain silent, is accused of qualified homicide and possession of a prohibited weapon.
The trial of the alleged murderer of Manuel Gonçalves, known as Manu, began this Monday morning in Braga, stabbed to death next to the Academic Bar of the University of Minho. since April 19th of last year.
Mateus Machado’s defense claims that he acted in self-defense and that the weapon used in the crime was not his. The lawyer is convinced that this will be proven during the trial.
The defendant is accused of qualified homicide and possession of a prohibited weapon. The Public Ministry concludes that Mateus Machado’s intention was to take the life of Manuel Gonçalves, known as Manu, although the defense disputes the prosecution’s conclusions and speaks of “several contradictions”.
Fight in the academic bar
The crime, in April last year, occurred following a fight that began inside the academic bar. The disagreement began when Manu concluded that one of the defendant’s friends had spiked the drink of a young bar customer.
Mateus Machado decided not to speak at the beginning of the trial. In the first few days, eight investigators from the Judiciary Police were interviewed.
In addition to the crimes set out in the indictment, Manu’s family is demanding compensation of 750 thousand euros.
