Arouca coach Vasco Seabra described his team’s upcoming Portuguese Cup fixture against Portimonense as a significant “test of maturity,” acknowledging the opponent’s top-tier capabilities while expressing confidence in his squad.
Seabra highlighted Portimonense’s strength, noting they “could perfectly be in the Liga Betclic,” Portugal’s top football division. He called the match a “very difficult eliminatory” against an opponent equally determined to advance.
He stressed Portimonense’s physical prowess, describing them as “very difficult to beat because they are aggressive in duels, both first and second ball, and technically capable.”
The coach indicated Arouca must be “very connected and aggressive in ball disputes” to counter Portimonense’s tactical variations, which typically feature three central defenders.
Despite the challenge, Seabra framed the game as an integral part of Arouca’s ongoing development plan, initiated before the recent league break.
Seabra confirmed his intention to field “the best eleven for this competition,” underscoring his trust in the entire squad. He added that any lineup changes are handled with the same gravity as a league match.
The goal, he said, is to extend the “positive feelings” from games played before the break. Winning the cup fixture would “give a special flavor to all moments” for the team.
The early league interruption was beneficial, Seabra explained. It allowed him to “pass more information to the group and gain strategic serenity.” He added that the Taça de Portugal is a “special competition” where Arouca’s “responsibility is maximum, as is motivation.”