Arouca coach Vasco Seabra expressed frustration with his team’s 2-0 loss to Moreirense, arguing the squad delivered a strong performance that belied the defeat and highlighted a lack of clinical finishing.
The defeat marked Arouca’s second consecutive loss and their second game without scoring, despite Seabra’s belief that his side conceded fewer opportunities than in previous matches. He noted the team’s aggressive pressing, intense play, and high volume of possession throughout the match.
“I think the game is a bit frustrating because it’s ungrateful,” Seabra told reporters after the match. “We probably conceded the fewest opportunities to the opponent today and ended up conceding two goals.”
Seabra pointed to two specific defensive breakdowns that led to Moreirense’s goals: a “disarticulation on the right” allowing a cross, and a moment in transition where Arouca failed to contain an opponent despite having numerical superiority. He also emphasized the team’s struggle with “assertiveness near the goal,” stating they created three strong scoring chances but should have capitalized more given their dominance.
The coach defended his decision to start goalkeeper Nico Mantl, citing Mantl’s significant development and improved training performance, rather than any poor form from the previous starter, João. Mantl’s ability to offer solutions against high pressing was also a factor, Seabra said.
Arouca has struggled to keep clean sheets, a situation Seabra described as “not habitual.” He attributed it to a combination of factors, stating it’s often “difficult to explain” why such moments occur.
He also addressed concerns about striker Barbero, who has yet to score this season and appears anxious. Seabra praised Barbero as a “natural finisher” with great ability, suggesting his current goalless streak is a matter of luck and timing.