The coach reflects on the 0-o draw with Gil Vicente FC

At the end of the draw between Sporting Clube de Portugal and Gil Vicente FC, coach João Pereira spoke at the press conference to review the game.

"Unlike in past games, we didn't have a very strong start, and it was difficult for us to create opportunities in the first half. We had a lot of possession and absolute control of the game, but we didn't create chances. In the second half, we adjusted our pressing and Gil Vicente FC couldn't play. We created more opportunities, but we lacked the final detail: The last pass, the last shot. We had a very good game defensively and were very consistent, but we have to score goals," he began by telling journalists.

"Sporting CP once again controlled the game, as we have done in every case. If we had scored, the game would have changed. We continue to improve, especially defensively, but we have to create even more. There isn't much time to work on this, but I'm here to find solutions," he said.

According to Pereira, this result "doesn't affect anything" in the preparation for 'O Clássico' against SL Benfica.

"That's a game that we want to win and that we're going to go into it looking for victory," he stated.

"I think that the Christmas period will be good for the players, who will spend time with their families.  They have experienced a lot in the last month and a half, and they have been warriors. They try to react and win in every game. We cannot forget that we played for 120 minutes just a few days ago. There came a moment when we noticed that the freshness was not the same," he added.

Finally, Pereira spoke about the fans.

"I understand their protests. I understand the fans. They supported us throughout the game and in the end they are free to say what they want. They did their job for 90 minutes and we were unable to repay them with victory. We have to own the moment."