The return to Portugal was bittersweet for Matheus, the veteran goalkeeper. He spent years guarding the net for Sp. Braga. This time, wearing the colors of Estrela Vermelha, he couldn’t stop his team from falling to FC Porto at their home ground. After the match, speaking to Sport TV, the Portuguese-Brazilian keeper opened up. He shared thoughts on a future game against his old club, the “Arsenalistas,” and piled praise on coach Farioli. He also touched on a dream shared by many: playing for the Portuguese National Team.
Matheus spoke plainly about the loss, a result no player wants. “We left with our heads held high,” he explained. “We gave it everything we had. Football often comes down to small moments. In the very last minute, that play happened, and FC Porto had a bit of luck. It’s never easy to visit the Dragon Stadium and play them evenly. We really wanted a win, but it just didn’t happen for us.”
He also addressed FC Porto’s fresh look upfront. “Was I surprised by their attack? Yes, a little,” Matheus admitted. “But I expected some changes. They have another big game coming up on Sunday. Every player is important, though, and we still feel good about our effort.”
One name that came up repeatedly was Farioli, the coach. Matheus didn’t hold back his admiration. “I think his results speak for themselves,” he said. “As a person and as a coach, he’s just excellent. He doesn’t need my praise. He’s made a real difference here in Porto. He changed the team a lot, and it’s clearly working. This championship is going to be a tough fight.” Matheus noted that Farioli’s training sessions are intense. “Yes, it’s always like this,” he confirmed. “What he practices, you see in the game. It’s a direct reflection of our daily work.”
Looking ahead, Matheus considered the upcoming trip to Braga. “Playing here was already tough, but the next one will be even more special,” he reflected. “I spent eleven years there. I met my wife, and my kids were born in Braga. That club means a lot to me. We hope to leave there with a victory. Braga already has six points in the standings, so we’ll need to play even better.”
Finally, the question of representing Portugal came up. “Every player dreams of that,” Matheus confessed. “I am Portuguese, and there’s no hiding that fact. I always do my best on the field. Why not keep working hard for that chance?”