FC Porto coach Francesco Farioli offered a philosophical take on his team’s recent 2-0 Europa League defeat to Nottingham Forest, asserting he is “more afraid of victories” than losses.
Speaking after the third-round group stage match, Farioli explained that while defeats prompt reflection, continuous winning can foster complacency. He emphasized that in football, both wins and losses are part of the game and must be accepted.
Despite the scoreboard, Farioli expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance, stating they “deserved more” from the game. He maintained that FC Porto had competed at a high level and had “no regrets” about their effort.
The coach swiftly moved to redirect his team’s attention, stating they must “close the Europa League book” and pivot to their upcoming league match. He stressed the need to “impose ourselves as a team” and prepare for the next opponent.
FC Porto lost to a Nottingham Forest side Farioli described as a “top team” featuring “very physical” players. Some opposing players, he noted, were valued between $65 million and $75 million.
Farioli defended his team’s intensity, asserting they did not lack it in the first half and actively pressed throughout the match. He also praised their offensive strategy, which included confident ball possession and patient attacks, preventing any counter-attacks from Forest’s fast attackers.
Midfielder Samu received praise for his collective work and ball control, despite not delivering a precise final pass. Farioli acknowledged Samu faced two strong central defenders but remained satisfied with his performance and attitude.
The match saw FC Porto assistant coach Lino Godinho sent off during a contentious moment. Farioli explained Godinho was signaling to FC Porto players about an offside Nottingham player, expressing confusion over the referee’s decision as Godinho remained within his technical area.
Historically, FC Porto has never defeated an English team. Farioli dismissed any notion that this loss could be a “good moment” for such a defeat, reiterating that his team had worked hard for positive results and must now “turn the page.”