The coach reflects on the 1-2 loss to FC Porto

After Sporting Clube de Portugal’s 1-2 loss against FC Porto, coach Rui Borges gave a press conference to review the performance.

The game
"It was an evenly matched, intense game, well-played by both sides, and it was competitive. We started the first half well. FC Porto brought the ball out and they were strong in the duels, but we managed to be the better side in the opening minutes. As time went on, the game evened out, and the first half was quite well balanced. We started the second half well, and just when we were in the best position, a five minute spell proved costly. We were pushing FC Porto hard, and nothing indicated what would happen in those five minutes. Above all, the team were capable of more. Conceding the second goal could have seriously sunk us, but the team fought back, made it 1-2, and could have made it 2-2.

FC Porto didn't deviate from what we had expected of them. They engage in a lot of duels, and play man-to-man. At times, we were able to connect inside, and at others, we connected on the outside. We had to look for space, and when we did that with quality, we created danger. The team understood when they needed to look for the long ball, and I'm happy with what we did."

The quality of Liga Portugal
"The big teams have strengthened with more quality. They are more capable collectively. They have more solutions to be capable of responding to setbacks, which makes the game more competitive."

The transfer market
"Nothing has changed. I'll talk after the transfer window closes. I'm happy with the squad I have and the conditions we have."

Clássicos at the beginning of the season
"This doesn't change our ambition at all. I'm proud and happy with the squad I have at my disposal."

The substitutes he used
"Those who came on, played well. They have responded and are waiting for the coach to give them opportunities. I'm happy with what they did."

Starting a new streak at Alvalade
"I can promise a lot of hard work and ambition to win every game. This team have already shown that they are very capable. I have no doubt that we will be very happy."