Returning to competition after another break for international fixtures, FC Porto beat CD Celoricense (4-0) at Estádio Cidade de Barcelos and secured their place in the fourth round of the Portuguese Cup. After a match in which “credit must be given to the opponent” for being “very compact in defence, especially in the first half”, Francesco Farioli praised the seriousness and humility of the Porto team, starting with the “best warm-up of the season”. “Now we move on to the next chapter, which is the Europa League”, continued the Italian coach, with the trip to England already on the horizon.

An analysis of the game
“All games are difficult, and today was no different on other pitches, but we have to give credit to our opponents, who were very compact in defence, especially in the first half. With time and with goal-scoring opportunities appearing, we achieved a better result and other opportunities to do more.”

The best eleven
“It was a decision we made to get off to a good start after the break, which is never easy.”

Preparation is non-negotiable
“We prepared for the game as best we could, despite having many players away. Eustáquio only trained on Friday morning, for example, and it's always difficult for many clubs that have several players in the national teams. It was very important to remain humble from the start. In fact, I think it was the best warm-up of the season because of the way the players approached this game. Now we move on to the next chapter, which is the Europa League.”

Samu's hat-trick
“It was good, especially the first goal, because it's something he's been working hard to improve, his movements with his back to goal. I'm happy for him, he deserves to score and he wanted to score. He came on very well.”

Nottingham Forest
“They sacked their manager, we don't know what will happen and that makes our task more difficult, but last season they finished in the top seven in the English league. They have an excellent team and great players, so we will have to prepare for various scenarios. The Analysis Department had already watched several games, but a lot of things will have to be thrown out and that will mean more work for the staff and also for the players.”