Farioli: “The pitch wasn’t in good shape, it wasn’t easy playing here” | OneFootball

The FC Porto secured another victory in the Betclic League this Monday, this time at Alverca's ground (3-0). At the end of the match, Francesco Farioli assessed his players' performance and highlighted pressure and reaction to losing the ball as crucial elements for the outcome.

“I think it was a positive game, but the pitch was not in good condition. It wasn't easy to play, especially against a very physical team that wins many duels. I think we did well, created several opportunities. I'm happy with the victory and for giving this gift to the fans,” he initially stated in an interview with Sport TV.

Were pressure and reaction to loss decisive? “Yes, they were important. But overall, I think understanding the moment of the game, when we should attack the low block… It wasn't easy to combine as we usually do, but in the 2nd half, we managed to find the best moments to attack again. I think we played a good game, defended well against long balls and second balls. It was positive.”

Another match without conceding… “It's good. Today we also had the help of Diogo [Costa], who made two very important saves in the 1st half. And more than that, his presence, the 'aura'. The way he commands the team is incredible. Good for our defense, good for Diogo, and I would prefer he didn't have much work, but when needed, we know we have a top goalkeeper.”

Is he a goalkeeper for high levels? “He really is. He's a top player, a top professional, he has an incredible mentality. He challenges his teammates to improve, to raise standards. I told him several times that he has an essential role. He's a FC Porto player, and we'll see.”

Deco said that the choice of coach and players was crucial for FC Porto's success… “I'm grateful for the words, but it's never the work of just one person. What I tried to do when we arrived was to analyze the situation, bring more energy to turn things around quickly. And then, in front of the cameras, it's always the coach, but there are many people working. The staff, the medical department, the people behind the cameras. But of course, the protagonists are the players. We are very happy with the results, for now having some days to be with the family, but after that, we will weigh the players to see the contribution of each one… We will have a very important game at home. As I often say, the results are good, but there are still many things to improve.”

FC Porto now has an eight-point lead over the 2nd and 11 over the 3rd. What does that represent now? “We count our points and don't have time to do the math. We still have a game to play in December, and there's a lot to do. Merry Christmas to all the dragons.”

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