The coach gives his opinions on a win against CD Santa Clara

In the aftermath of the 3-0 triumph over CD Santa Clara, coach Rúben Amorim analysed that his team started well, but warned that they switched off slightly when in front.

“What I liked most was the complete way we began the game. We showed good offensive dynamics and also a very strong reaction when we lost the ball. We didn't let CD Santa Clara create opportunities or connect with the players up front. We were strong in aerial duels and we often made it three against three," he started by stating in his post-match press conference.

“What I liked least was that we turned off our intensity a little, and the fact that CD Santa Clara had many shots on goal, which is not normal for our team. Some of them weren't  dangerous, but others, like the ball hitting the post, they could have scored from. Players have to learn to enjoy the good moments more, when we are winning comfortably in the game. We have to play better in the easier moments."

Amorim then spoke on the return of Luís Neto, who came on in the second half to play for the first time in almost seven months, after recovering from a prolonged injury.

“Players are not only important for what they do on the field, but also off it, and Neto is an example of that. Even at his age, he has grown a lot in the quality of his game and was always an example in the dressing room during his time on the sidelines, for the way he recovered from a very serious problem and grew in fitness and maximum speed. He has many years to go in his career, he has won a lot and is comfortable in life, but he is still hungry to be an important person on the team. That is a very important factor, especially in a team with a lot of young players."

Questioned about Arthur Gomes, who started on the right wing, he said that the Brazilian performed very well in a new position.

“Offensively, it's easy for him because he has good timing. Maybe he's one of the best on our team in attacking behind the back of the defence. Even so, in the second half we had some difficulties in constructing play due to the way they pressed us higher, as he didn't track back as quickly as usual. There are good and bad things, but he cut out two transitions and had a very complete game."

As for Afonso Moreira, the 18-year-old winger who was on the bench but ended up not making his debut, the coach spoke highly of the young talent.

“We believe in Afonso Moreira a lot. He has very good characteristics. He could do what Nuno Santos does, not just because of his physical ability and speed. He has to start feeling what the first team is all about. He didn't come on today because it wasn't necessary; if we need a replacement for Arthur he could play that position or go further forward. I really believe in Afonso Moreira, he plays well with both feet and has a lot of quality."

Amorim also commented on the rotation that he has been using, whether in his starting eleven or during the course of the game.

“It doesn't matter who plays, the ideas and positions are there. Everyone has to feel important and in this team, with so many young players, either everyone feels that they are important or they end up getting down. But the team are growing in this aspect, and hunger for the ball sometimes works miracles."