Sporting Braga is targeting a league victory against FC Arouca on Monday, maintaining a professional focus despite a grueling schedule.
Goalkeeper Lukas Hornicek expressed confidence in the team’s ability to secure three points, emphasizing their determination to continue climbing the league standings.
Hornicek, speaking after a recent match in Glasgow, acknowledged the challenge of recovery but highlighted the squad’s professionalism and support staff. “It’s not easy to recover, but we are all professionals, we have a good squad, good physiotherapists and others who are very good, they help us a lot,” he stated.
The upcoming match against FC Arouca on their home ground is expected to be difficult, but Hornicek believes Braga’s consistent play will lead to success. “Now we just have to focus on Arouca, go to win and continue to climb,” he said. “It will be a difficult game, as it always is there. They are a good team, have a lot of quality, but I think if we maintain our identity we will be able to leave with the victory.”
This forward-looking stance follows a hard-fought draw in Scotland, where Braga secured a point despite playing with 10 men after midfielder Zalazar’s expulsion.
Hornicek reflected on the unity shown during that challenging game. “We are happy for this point because the team showed unity and played well, even with the adversities that happened during the game,” he noted.
He added that the numerical disadvantage did not deter their approach. “One less player does not take away our confidence and we continued with the same style of play,” Hornicek explained.
Individually, Hornicek also pointed to significant improvements in his own game, specifically his footwork, which he believes boosts team confidence.
“I feel that perhaps the aspect where I wasn’t as strong was in my footwork, which I have now greatly improved,” the Czech guardian shared. “We are working on it and I think it gives confidence to the team.” He noted there are always areas for further improvement.