Porto boss Martin Anselmi ahead of Roma playoff: “We need to control the game.” | OneFootball

Porto manager Martín Anselmi held a press conference to preview the first leg of his side’s Europa League playoff tie against Roma.

Coming off two straight draws, the Portuguese giants and Giallorossi face-off on Thursday evening at the Estádio do Dragão before next week’s return leg in the Italian capital.

“We’re making progress, and we must aim to improve with every match,” Anselmi told reporters.

“We’ve already seen growth from the Rio Ave game to the Sporting match, and we hope to continue that against Roma. It’s crucial that the group pushes itself to improve, and I must highlight the courage they have shown.”

Adding, “The first match is the most important, regardless of whether it’s at home or away. The second leg will be influenced by how we perform tomorrow. If we execute our game plan well, we’ll be in a strong position.”

“Winning through poor play might work once, but it’s not sustainable. I cannot allow a team I coach to be anything less than competitive. We want to win every match, and when we don’t, it hurts.”

Finally, “We need to take away their time to make good decisions. If we give them time, they will control the game. And for me, controlling the game—both with and without the ball—is fundamental.”