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

Sotiris Silaidopoulos, who has yet to secure a victory in the championship (three draws and one defeat), 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 possible,” stated the Greek coach at the pre-match conference.

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

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

“We have created many opportunities; we are among the teams that finish 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 of 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 our 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 isolated leader with 15, this Friday at 8:15 PM, at 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.