Bruno Duarte: “This is a much more intense FC Porto than in recent years” | OneFootball

Bruno Duarte, who represented V. Guimarães between 2019 and 2022, was at the preview conference of the game between Red Star and FC Porto (Thursday, 8:00 PM), at the Dragão Stadium. The 29-year-old striker, now serving the Belgrade team, highlighted the good start of the season for the Portuguese, but refused to point out a clear "favorite" for the 2nd round of the regular phase of the Europa League.

"It's going to be a completely different game from the past. This is a much more intense FC Porto than in recent years. They come from, I believe, seven wins (editor's note: they are actually eight consecutive wins), they come from a very good streak and we expect a very difficult game, but we will do our best," emphasized Bruno Duarte, noting that, "if I can score, even better".

Was there any sharing of information by those who know the Portuguese League before the meeting? "Yes, Handël played last season against FC Porto and passed on some things about them. About the intensity of FC Porto, they are a very fast and strong team on the field, we know they play in a high block, to pressure us. But we can adapt to that and surprise them."

Do you think FC Porto starts as a favorite or do you foresee a balanced game? "I think both teams have a beautiful history in European football, they are colossal teams in Europe and the greatness, that, is there. They are always teams that fight for the championship of their country and, when it comes to a European game, it ends up being always an open game. I don't believe there are favorites."

You will face Diogo Costa, one of the best goalkeepers of the moment. "It's going to be a very interesting duel, because he is a goalkeeper with a lot of quality. But we also have an extraordinary goalkeeper like Matheus. I've scored twice against FC Porto, one of them against Diogo, so I can talk about what I can do for my team. If I have the opportunity and am well prepared, I can try and that's how we all go to the game. You need to overcome the best to be the best, going in focused to help the team."

Do you feel comfortable in the role that the coach has been using you? "Yes, I feel comfortable, I've played there last season and what needs to be done on the field, I do it. Whether it's to make myself available, or to be happy. I feel good being versatile, for me that's the most important."

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