Sp. Braga is looking to turn things around tomorrow. After two draws in a row, the team wants to win in the Liga Betclic. They will host Gil Vicente in a match for the 5th round, kicking off at 8:30 PM. Coach Carlos Vicens spoke about the recent results and the upcoming game. He believes the match against Gil Vicente is important for his squad.
The team used the past few days wisely, Vicens explained. They took time to rest and get their energy back. Then, everyone returned to work hard and train well. Players coming back from international duty also needed their workload adjusted. This ensures everyone is in the best shape possible. Playing in front of their home fans, the team hopes to give them something to cheer about.
Some might think tomorrow is a “must-win” situation after two draws. Vicens quickly dismissed this idea. He stated the team approaches every game with the same winning mindset. He noted the draws happened in domestic competitions. There was also a Europa League playoff against Lincoln in between. Still, the team’s mental approach stays the same. They prepared thoroughly and will try their best to win.
On the player front, there was good news about Ricardo Horta. Yes, he will be available for the game. Vicens shared that Horta is slowly getting back into the team. His progress has been good. There will be one final test tomorrow to confirm his full readiness.
The recent departure of Roger also came up. Vicens wished Roger good luck in his next step. He thinks Roger will do well and was an important player for the team. Now, the focus is on the players who are still here. The goal is to get the most out of them. Vicens commented on the quick nature of the transfer market. He feels it leaves little room for clubs to react. Roger’s success also highlights the good work of the club’s youth academy.
When asked if he would have liked to have Banza, Vicens was clear. Banza has been out of the first team picture since the beginning. The coach stressed that the team is only focused on the current squad. These are the players they will rely on for the season.
The team’s confidence after the two draws was another point of discussion. Vicens saw the two draws differently. Against AVS at home, Sp. Braga dominated completely. Yet, two mistakes cost them dearly. The equalizer came late, and they couldn’t find a winner. The match against Rio Ave was a different story. The first half was not up to their usual standard, quite weak actually. However, the team’s reaction in the second half was strong. They created enough chances to feel they deserved more. Vicens simply accepted both draws, saying, “because it’s football.”
Gil Vicente’s coach, César Peixoto, hinted he might try to exploit Sp. Braga’s supposed anxiety. Vicens brushed off these comments. He said the team is focused on preparing themselves. People outside the club can have their opinions, but they don’t concern the team. Their only goal is to improve. What outsiders think doesn’t worry them.
Looking ahead to Gil Vicente, Vicens expects a tough game. Their opponents started the season very well and are feeling confident. Despite that, Sp. Braga will work hard for all three points. They hope to deliver the performance they are capable of.