FC Porto took another important step in the fight for the qualification to the Round of 16 of the UEFA Champions League. The Dragons beat Lokomotiv in Moscow (3-1) and are in the lead of Group D, with seven points at the end of the first turn, and with two matches at home to play.

Sérgio Conceição was obviously pleased with the score reached in Moscow and talked of the key moments in the blue and white performance:

Not questionable
“It was a match where we were better, there are no doubts about that. I didn’t like this or that defensive mistake, this or that individual mistake. We tried to control the match, but, each time the opponent got the ball, they created danger in the attack. The goal Lokomotiv scored? Those are mistakes that can happen, they are part of the game.  Overall, the team did the best of the weaknesses of the opponent and should be praised.”

Positive analysis
“We are happy, but we could have and should have done more at times. There are situations we need to avoid, namely not allow for our fullbacks to be so exposed. Either way, overall, it was a good performance, we were better, we were stronger, so congratulations to the players.”

Óliver going in
“It was important that he played in this match, so he did. He has features, such as the quality to hold and pass the ball. It was a match where we had to make the best of some room in the back of their defence, with Marega and Corona, so it was important to have someone like Óliver.”

Preparing for the Round of 16?
“We are preparing to return to Portugal to face Feirense, which will be a difficult match, as they play well and are organized in the back. When Lokomotiv comes again, we will discuss the Champions League, as Galatasaray and Schalke04 tied, which only reinforces the importance of this victory.”