FC Porto holds the advantage in the round of 16 of the Europa League after defeating VfB Stuttgart (1-2) on Thursday at the Arena Stuttgart in Germany in the first leg of the round. Even with “eight changes to the starting lineup,” Francesco Farioli saw the Porto squad come out “with the right energy” and deliver, “overall,” a “very good” performance. Still, this result “guarantees nothing,” and the team needs to put on “a good performance at our stadium” to move forward in the competition. The second leg, it should be noted, will be played next Thursday (20h00) at Estádio do Dragão, but now “our focus is already on Moreirense FC,” assured the Italian coach.

A look at the game
“We played very well. We made eight changes to the starting lineup, and it was very important to start with the right energy. We had some very good moments in the first half against an opponent we know how they usually play. We expected an open game, and that’s how it was for both teams. After the second goal, we lost control a bit, and the atmosphere in the stadium became more difficult, especially after the 1-2, which changed the momentum of the game. Overall, the team’s performance was very good, and there were several strong individual performances. It was only the first leg, and there’s still a lot to do, but our focus is already on Moreirense FC.”

A matter of intensity
“The fact that we played the way we did against a team of this caliber, especially in terms of physicality and organization, says a lot about the level of our performance. Matching their intensity was one of the keys to the victory. It’s an excellent result; it doesn’t guarantee anything, but it’s important.”

Seko Fofana and Terem Moffi
“It’s normal for them to show some fatigue, since they were the last to join the squad. They’re trying to find their pace, but Terem [Moffi] had a great game; he was fantastic in linking up with his teammates and in duels with opponents. He had a good understanding of the game. [Seko] Fofana also had a great game, with many runs from box to box; it was a very good performance on his part. It’s great to see that the team is growing. There were many positive aspects, but nothing is decided yet; we have to turn the page and move on to the next chapter.”

The second leg is at Estádio do Dragão
“We’re going to face a team that’s among the top four in the Bundesliga, a very physical and technically skilled side. Today was the first time I saw Alberto [Costa] struggle in one-on-one situations, and that says a lot about the level of our opponent. We played a very good game in terms of mentality and attitude. We have to keep it up; we have to keep improving. Now it’s Moreirense FC, and then we’ll focus on VfB Stuttgart again. It was a good result, but honestly, it doesn’t change anything. Even if we’d scored more goals, we’re still in the middle of a round against one of the best teams in the top five European leagues. We need a strong performance at home.”

The team’s energy has to be at its peak
“There are no secrets. At this stage of the season, the team’s energy is crucial. We have to have a lot of energy on the field, and every player on the squad is important. We still have many games ahead, and I’d like everyone to be in top physical and mental shape. We’re competing in three different tournaments, and everyone is important to help the team.”

Next up is a home match against Moreirense FC
“My mindset and that of the Club is focused on the next game, which is against Moreirense FC. In a week’s time, we’ll start thinking about VfB Stuttgart again. It’s one step at a time, but it’s natural that we also have to plan for the long term. We’re involved in several competitions, and we need to stay focused on the next game. Now we have to recover well.”