Nuno Santos, Porto asking for trouble: Rui Borges on Sporting v AFS SAD | OneFootball

Rui Borges addressed Sporting’s victory over AFS SAD in extra time (3-2) during a press conference at the Artur Agostinho Auditorium in Alvalade. The coach admitted that the team “put themselves at risk,” but gave credit to the players. He also looked ahead to the upcoming Classic against Porto, spoke about Nuno Santos’ return, and assured that the extra time played would not be used as an excuse.

Objective achieved despite going to extra time

“The objective was achieved, that’s for sure. It was a competent game up until 2-0, then we collectively relaxed and AFS, through two fortuitous moments, won two penalties and ended up believing in a different result. After that, we went into a mental stress with several missed passes. Football, perhaps, is beautiful because of this: it changes a lot and quickly. We put ourselves at risk, but credit must also go to the opponent.”

Impact of the extra 30 minutes on the upcoming classic

“The players will be more tired in the coming days, but that won’t be an excuse for our demands in the classic. We’ll arrive in the best shape to play a game of different intensity. I believe it will be an important match, but not a decisive one. The demand and motivation of playing a classic will outweigh the 30 extra minutes from today.”

The return of Nuno Santos

“Above all, I’m happy to see him return to the team after such a long break. It’s fantastic for me, for his teammates, and for the fans. He’s far from his best performance, but we’ll help him. He’ll get there, but he needs time and patience to understand that. He can play as a full-back or as a midfielder and he’s another one who will add a lot of quality and, above all, a lot of competitiveness.”

Several options in the squad for the winger position

“They are the ones who have to show me how prepared they are to respond. I like them to know how to play on both sides, because football today is more unpredictable. Above all, I have more options with different characteristics. I’m happy that everyone is connected and able to respond.”

Standings ahead of the classic

“I don’t look back, only forward. We’ll do everything to win the game, but it’s not decisive because there are many games left. We were eight points ahead of second place in 2024/2025 and lost nine. Every game is going to be very difficult. For me, it’s not a decisive game, it’s an important one.”

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