Futre: “Sporting were like family, but I owe it all to FC Porto” | OneFootball

On the eve of the derby between Sporting and FC Porto, referring to the first leg of the Portuguese Cup semi-finals, scheduled for Tuesday at Alvalade at 8:45 pm, Paulo Futre – who played for both clubs – refused to name a favorite.

“I carry both of them with me forever. Sporting was my father and mother in football, but I also wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for FC Porto and what I achieved there,” he began, in statements to Lusa news agency, emphasizing that whenever they face each other, he only wishes “may the best team win.”

Having grown up in Sporting’s youth academy and as a key figure for FC Porto, who won the European Cup in 1987, the former international says he experiences the clashes between the two with mixed emotions.

“In a classic, there are never any favorites. One team may be doing very well and lose, another may not be doing so well and win. When the referee blows the whistle, anything can happen,” he said.

Futre acknowledges that the emotional component continues to influence these games, but stresses that nowadays it is rare to see public statements that give a psychological advantage to the opponent: “There is only an emotional advantage if someone makes an unfortunate statement, says they are better or that they will win easily. The other team comes in angrier. Today, that almost never happens.”

“A semi-final is played over 180 minutes”

Asked about the importance of the opening match, he recommended a cautious approach, drawing on his experience in knockout stages, both European and domestic.

“A semi-final is played over 180 minutes. The first game is only the first half. Even if someone loses at home, nothing is decided. It can be settled by a moment of genius, a mistake, or a set piece. And it can even go to penalties. Some don’t believe it, but I believe in luck. That little bit of luck is very important in these moments,” he replied.

Regarding predictions, he remained impartial: “Perhaps I’ll be sadder for the team that loses than happy for the one that wins. They are two very special teams for me.”

“FC Porto is doing well, Sporting is also having a great season. For me, it’s fifty-fifty. I expect a great tie and may the best team go through,” he concluded.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇵🇹 here.