Sporting’s coach laments lack of effectiveness, explains the impact of Gonçalo Inacio’s expulsion, and is already looking ahead to the League Cup.
Control and lack of effectiveness
In the first half, we didn’t start very well for the first 15 or 20 minutes. Gil Vicente managed to create one or two dangerous chances in the box from set pieces, especially from set pieces. In open play, they couldn’t manage it; I don’t remember any chance where they created any real danger for us. In the first half, we could have been more clinical at times, we could have created more situations near the goal, we could have made some crosses, the goal. We could have been a bit more incisive in the box; we spent a lot of time supporting the attack. Towards the end of the first half, we didn’t last long with some crosses, mainly from Simoes who was positioned further up the pitch. In the second half, we started very well, we could have made it 2-0, we killed the game. And until the goal, honestly, until Inácio’s sending off, we had the game minimally under control, the danger from Gil Vicente. Again, it was mostly from set pieces, aggressive play, especially from set pieces. Apart from that, we managed to control the game. At times, starting around the 20=minute mark of the second half, we let the game unfold, losing possession a few times = we didn’t need to lose it = and allowing Gil Vicente to try and counter-attack. Aside from that, even with one less player, we managed to equalize, and in those final minutes it was more about heart than anything else.
Reorganization after the expulsion
“We ended up not giving much weight to what I was going to ask for, considering the players we had on the field. It is what it is, it’s part of the game, he lifts his head and continues on his way.
Competitive personality and attitude
“The team’s competitive attitude was always there, from beginning to end. And despite everything, we played a good game, with a lot of quality, at times above average. As I said, we could have made it 2=0, we didn’t, and we ended up letting Gil Vicente believe in themselves until the end. And then, of course, the sending-off also made us believe more, and we ended up deservedly scoring the equalizer. And then, in those last few minutes, both teams, honestly, I think it was more about heart than organization.
Focus on the League Cup with absences
“It’s not worth it, I’m already thinking about what I have to do for the next game, which is my League Cup final. Inácio isn’t here, we don’t have many options for the central defenses. My mind is already searching for solutions to make the team competitive again and to play a good game so we can be in the final.
Fight for the championship
I already said this yesterday in relation to those who are well behind. There are many games left to play, many points to be contested. We are only and solely focused on what we control and what we have to do.