Rio Ave coach Sotiris Silaidopoulos has underscored the importance of maintaining positive momentum and stabilizing team performance as the club prepares to host Estoril, aiming for a third consecutive league victory.
Silaidopoulos emphasized that “continuity is something we want to see in the next games.” He highlighted the team’s two recent triumphs in the championship against Tondela and E. Amadora as a foundational step.
This push for consistency follows what he described as “complicated challenges” in earlier matches against stronger opponents like Benfica and Famalicão. The coach stated his plan is now to “stabilize performance and mentality” for the “Rio Ave project.”
“The prospect of achieving three consecutive victories is a motivation for everyone,” Silaidopoulos said. He added that the objective is focused on “performance and helping the team gain confidence.”
The current league focus comes after Rio Ave’s recent elimination from the Taça de Portugal, the country’s main cup competition. Silaidopoulos noted that cup play “demands a very different approach” compared to the league.
The Greek coach also reflected on his personal journey, acknowledging he “needed some time to adapt” to Portuguese football. He noted that while “achieving three consecutive victories is nothing new” given his work in Greece, it is something they “really want to show” in Portugal.
Silaidopoulos expressed it is a “privilege to be in Vila do Conde representing a club with history.” He believes the team is improving and has learned a lot since his arrival.
Looking ahead to the Estoril match, Silaidopoulos urged his team to maintain focus. He stated that “every game has its own story and Estoril has many tactical nuances,” but stressed that it is crucial “to continue with hunger and ambition.”