Sérgio Conceição talked of a “strategically interesting match”, pointing out that the result of the classic against Benfica (3-2) is a reflection of work
After the victory at Estádio do Dragão against Benfica, 3-2, for matchday 20 of the championship, Sérgio Conceição talked of a “great football match”, praising the attitude of the players.
A classic with strong emotions
“It was a great football match. We had a match with intensity and with two teams trying to win. There were great players on the pitch. Strategically, we had two coaches trying to do the best to get something positive out of the teams. It was a match with all the ingredients to a great football match.”
Analysis to the victory
We prepared for this match in the sense of being a pressing and organized team. As a team, we had to be stronger to be able to counter that first moment of attack they have, forcing them to play long, and we were better in the duels. We were also better in getting to lost balls and, when we did have it, we exploited their weaknesses well. I believe we had many goal opportunities. We were also misfortune to concede a goal on the first time they shot on target in the first-half. And it was the same in the second-half. However, that didn’t break our pace or the players’ emotions. I want to congratulate my team and the entire group, for the great match played against a strong team.”
The substitutions
“I believe we were giving too much space in the centre. I pushed Marega to the right and Otávio as the third man in the midfield to balance that space. In the meantime, I switched the triangle in the midfield, having Uribe more fix in his position, and Sérgio Oliveira and Otávio as inside midfielders, to control the match better. We continued to believe that it would be possible to increase the lead and have a calmer match. We had the opportunities for that, but we were efficient. Had we been, the result would have been bigger. I believe that, overall, it was an interesting football match.”
Four points behind the lead
“We always believe. This is just another match. These are just three points. It doesn’t matter to win this match if, in the next one, against Vitória SC, we don’t get the three points. This is a marathon. We are in the fight for the title, because we believe in what we do every day and the players show that on the pitch. We have a balanced squad, competitive, that deserves to be congratulated.”
Victory with a special dedication
“I want to dedicate the victory to Inês Índio, the daughter of Alberto Índio (the voice behind the music “Porto é uma nação” [Porto is a nation]), who is fighting an oncologic condition. This victory is for her and for all the children in the same condition. Tonight, my players gave them a moment of great happiness.”
A vibrant stadium
“I want to thank the audience. Our stadium was fantastic tonight. We are unbeatable if we stand together. When the audience shows up for a match like this, the players feel that strength. The FC Porto fans are passionate about the club and they like to lose, at all.”
FC Porto Portal uses cookies in different ways. Know more here .
By continuing to browse the site you are consenting to its use.