Silaidopoulos: Rio Ave can shock Porto, a real test for us | OneFootball

Sotiris Silaidopoulos, who has yet to secure a win in the championship (three draws and one loss), acknowledged the difficulty of the upcoming challenge but remained optimistic about his team's response.

"I think it will be a great test for us in terms of character, personality, and faith against an opponent like FC Porto. Every game starts 0-0 and 11 against 11, and we want to present ourselves in the best way," stated the Greek coach at the pre-match conference.

Recalling that last season he faced the dragons as an assistant at Olympiacos, Silaidopoulos considered the current FC Porto more solid and strong. Nevertheless, he emphasized that Rio Ave, playing at home, can compete with any opponent and called for the fans' support.

The coach admitted that the 3-1 defeat against Moreirense highlighted weaknesses, especially in defense.

"We have created many opportunities, we are among the teams that shoot the most in the League. But to win, there needs to be a balance between attacking and defending. We have conceded nine goals in four games, and that doesn't help. Still, I believe that tomorrow we will show a different side," he stated.

Silaidopoulos assured that he intends to impose his game plan against FC Porto, exploiting spaces and moments of disorganization from the opponent, and confirmed that some late reinforcements might join the starting eleven.

"The new players have been with us for about a week, they already know our system and ideas better. Some of them will be ready to enter the starting eleven and help the team, which is important at this stage," he declared.

Rio Ave, ranked 15th with three points, will host FC Porto, the sole leader with 15 points, this Friday at 20:15, at the Estádio dos Arcos. The match will be officiated by referee Anzhony Rodrigues, from AF Madeira.

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