SC Braga’s pursuit of the national championship title has become more challenging. On Tuesday, the Minho team suffered a 0-2 home defeat to Sporting CP, leaving them with no margin for error.
After the match, Joel Rocha, the SC Braga coach, analyzed the game during a press conference. He described it as a balanced contest and affirmed that SC Braga is capable of competing against any team, anywhere. Rocha emphasized that they are not contemplating an end to the series in game 3.
Joel Rocha’s Direct Speech
Game Analysis: “One of the factors, though not the only one, that prevented us from achieving a different result was our lack of effectiveness. Sporting CP, of course, deserves credit in several situations. However, it’s clear to me that we created opportunities under favorable conditions to have a better outcome. A team that doesn’t concede goals, as Sporting CP did, deserves congratulations for keeping a clean sheet and winning. Our inability to score, despite our efforts, made things more difficult.”
“In the first half, despite some balance, Sporting CP was slightly better than us. Besides scoring the goal, they seemed marginally superior. In the second half, SC Braga improved, slightly better within the ongoing balance of the game. We had the first chance within the first ten seconds, with a numerical advantage, but we didn’t capitalize. We were consistent throughout the 40 minutes and created opportunities. In the second half, without reviewing the game in detail, it seems we had more and better chances to score.”
“Another key factor was our 4×3 offensive, where our best effort resulted in a shot hitting the post and a near miss by the second post. Then, in the 5×4, another numerical advantage, we created a good situation with Fábio [Cecílio] inside. Overall, we deserved and justified more than a defeat and zero goals. It was a game where, despite our consistency, we deserved a bit more. Not scoring goals always makes it harder, and the only disappointment is the result. Everything else—the consistency over 40 minutes and our quality, except in finishing—makes me proud.”
Responsability
Team’s Sense of Responsibility: “Playing at home has mostly resulted in victories. This is our first 40-minute defeat in the arena and the second home loss this season. Thus, playing at home usually means winning. It’s a source of pride and satisfaction for us and typically uncomfortable for our opponents.”
SC Braga’s Capability of Winning at João Rocha: “SC Braga, regardless of the venue, can compete head-to-head and win against any team, anywhere. Whether it’s a final game at SC Braga, Sporting CP, or a neutral site, we have built this capability as part of our team identity. This is untouchable and totally empowering, allowing us to play to win anywhere and against any opponent.”
Playing Time
Buzuzu’s Playing Time: “From the first day of the season, I’ve said that all players are different and important, and I need to prove that. Today, in two final games and throughout the playoffs, everyone has had a chance to prove themselves due to their quality. Our squad was built to provide these options, allowing me to make this choice today.”
“In relation to the game, Buzuzu offers defensive strength, crucial against Sporting CP’s effective pivot play. Players like Zicky and Sokolov are strong and it’s a physically demanding game. Tiago Sousa, Buzuzu, and Ygor Mota stood out today, demonstrating the diverse characteristics we rely on. Defensively, they provide assurance and contribute offensively.”
“In today’s context, Buzuzu was involved in a good moment when we played 4×3. He made an error, anticipated, stole, and advanced the ball well. He is strong in driving play, objective, and passes well to the pivot. We seek various traits to maintain game effectiveness and adapt to final game tendencies. The squad was designed to change players and characteristics, creating unpredictability for our opponents.”
Robinho
Robinho’s Condition: “He is currently under the medical department’s care. I have no additional information. Every day and hour is crucial for Robinho and others to recover. These games are demanding both physically and emotionally. We aim to recover well by Saturday and be ready for game 3.”
