Santa Clara was defeated by Sporting in Alvalade and, consequently, eliminated from the Portuguese Cup by the Lions, after extra time. In the area of quick interviews, at the Sport TV microphones, Vasco Matos showed pride in his squad and described this result as inglorious.
Meeting analysis: «I have to congratulate my players for their performance in the game. Obviously, Sporting dominated and controlled the game, but with us we always worked taking planning into account. We could have been more courageous with the ball, also to Sporting’s credit, but after their goal, we had three or four goal situations. In the end, for what we did, it makes us proud to believe in our work and process. We reached a draw and obviously we were happy, but happiness is sought after and we went in search of that bit of luck. We were brave and left everything on the field, with one day less rest than Sporting and that’s the path we have to continue on. I am extremely proud of my players.”
Late reaction? «We also made a lot of changes to the team, we used some players who don’t have many minutes in the Primeira Liga and it’s normal that, on this stage, it’s difficult for them to adapt. We knew that Sporting would come in strong and that we would have to wait for the right moments. After our goal we had more ball, it’s true that we were lucky with the equalizing goal but then we conceded that goal and losing like that, for me, is inglorious. In my opinion, we deserved more for our bravery, but it’s about moving forward and being proud of what we did, but we have to not let our guard down.”
Interesse do Southampton: «Today I only comment on the game. I’m not going to talk about it.”
Belgium
