Arouca coach Vasco Seabra stated his team’s 5-0 loss to Benfica was inflated by three “decisive” penalties, arguing the final score did not accurately reflect the competitive nature of the Portuguese Primeira Liga match.
Seabra contended that the first two penalty decisions, in particular, significantly altered the game’s flow. He noted Benfica “was not doing anything” before scoring their first goal from the spot.
“Then they weren’t doing anything to score the second and got another penalty,” Seabra said after the match. He called these “situations that unlock the game.”
The coach drew a contrast with a previous encounter, where Arouca had successfully defended against early Benfica opportunities. Those prior clearances, he explained, led to a more undecided match, making Benfica “more anxious” and Arouca “more mature.”
“Today, that wasn’t allowed,” Seabra added, implying the penalties prevented a similar outcome.
He maintained that, despite the wide margin, his team exhibited “competitive organization” and “was not being crushed.” Seabra clarified he was not questioning the validity of the penalty calls themselves, but rather their impact on the final score.
The coach expressed continued belief in his squad. He emphasized the team’s commitment to finishing the first half of the season strongly.
Seabra also addressed the decision to leave out player Fukui from the starting lineup, calling it a difficult choice made for tactical cohesion. Fukui later entered the game and delivered a “fantastic” second-half performance.