Marítimo coach Vítor Matos is grappling with a stark paradox: his team ranks among Portugal’s second division leaders in key performance metrics, yet struggles to secure wins, especially on home turf, a challenge he insists leaves “no time to cry” amidst a packed schedule.
The team currently boasts the most possession in the league, ranks second in pressing and passes into the final third, and third in defensive intensity. Despite these statistics, they recently surrendered a lead against U. Leiria to lose the match in the second half.
Matos, 37, acknowledged that “defeats affect the team’s belief” but emphasized a focus on detailed analysis of errors and successes. He stated, “We have a lot of time to think, and little to cry or laugh.”
The coach stressed the need for “work and opportunities to improve,” explicitly rejecting anxiety or excessive enthusiasm within the squad.
He dismissed notions that his team feels more pressure playing at home, noting consistent support from fans both at home and away. Matos suggested “too many scars from other years” might be creating doubts among people surrounding the team.
Marítimo has yet to find consistent home results, though Matos argued their “exhibition” (performance) has been strong. He cited instances where results could have “fallen our way” under different circumstances.
The team faces Oliveirense next, a side Matos described as “well-organized defensively” with a five-man line and dangerous on transitions. Oliveirense is also undefeated at home.
Matos affirmed Marítimo’s goal to “compete and above all, try to win the game.”
The coach underscored the “very competitive” nature of Portugal’s second division, where many teams benefit from “strong investment” and are capable of challenging each other.
Matos also highlighted an “inhomogeneous calendar,” involving a recent 10-day break followed by games with only three days in between. This schedule, he noted, complicates training and squad management.
Regarding the absence of experienced Honduran reinforcement Alberth Elis, Matos confirmed it was “just a technical decision.” He plans to assess players in an upcoming training session before finalizing his lineup for the next match.