FC Porto hosts Stuttgart this Thursday, in the second leg of the round of 16 of the European League, taking advantage after the 2-1 victory in Germany, but with the tie still completely open.
In previewing the match, Francesco Farioli downplayed the result of the first leg and reinforced the need to face the game as a new challenge: “It’s better to have a small advantage, of course, but, in reality, we have to consider that it’s 0-0. What happened in Stuttgart stayed there and, at Dragão, we have to play with the desire to win and move forward”.
The Italian coach also warned about the quality and intensity of the opponent, anticipating a demanding duel: “We are going to face a very intense team. I don’t expect big changes in the way they play, maybe just small adjustments. They are a team with a very clear identity and the game will be decided in the details.”
Despite Porto’s advantage, Farioli rejects any result management scenario and guarantees an ambitious team: “The advantage is part of the past. Tomorrow is a new story and we have to play all our cards.”
FC Porto arrives at this meeting in a positive moment, after a convincing victory against Moreirense FC in the championship, with the coach highlighting the importance of physical management of the squad: “We have managed to maintain good energy levels. The rotation has been important and all the players have given a very positive response.”
Regarding Thiago Silva’s return, the coach highlighted the player’s impact on the group: “He’s an incredible leader and an elite footballer. He came back with the right energy and that’s very important for us.”
With the support expected at Estádio do Dragão and a minimal advantage to defend, the blue and whites seek to confirm their passage to the next stage, knowing that they will face an opponent determined to counter the result of the first leg.
“We know it will be a very demanding game and will probably be decided in detail, but the team is prepared, with the right attitude and the necessary ambition to give everything they have on the field and qualify against our opponents,” said Farioli
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