Portuguese football club Santa Clara’s coach Vasco Matos has demanded a fundamental change in player behavior and intensity ahead of a challenging league fixture, following a mixed run of form and a recent heavy cup defeat.
Matos characterized Monday’s Liga Betclic match against fourth-placed Gil Vicente as a “great opportunity” for his eighth-placed team to “improve behaviors.” He stressed the need for renewed focus and understanding among players.
The call comes after Santa Clara suffered a 5-0 loss to Sp. Braga in the League Cup. Matos stated that the defeat was “not our face” and must prompt internal reflection and work within the squad.
Santa Clara’s recent league performance has been inconsistent, with two wins, two losses, and a draw in their last five outings. These results include a 1-1 draw against Benfica but also 2-1 defeats to Tondela and Vitória de Guimarães.
In contrast, their upcoming opponent, Gil Vicente, is in strong form, having secured four victories and only one defeat in their last five league matches. Gil Vicente sits significantly higher in the standings with 19 points to Santa Clara’s 11.
Matos admitted the team is “searching for balance” after two successful seasons. These included winning the second division championship and achieving the club’s highest-ever Primeira Liga finish at fifth place.
He asserted that the distinction between failure and success lies in “behavior” and the team’s “levels of aggressiveness.” Matos noted this was “very evident” within the current squad.
The coach indicated a need to introduce “new stimuli and challenges” to create “discomfort” among players. This strategy aims to avoid complacency after a period of significant achievement.
Speaking from a stadium in Ponta Delgada, Matos also reflected on Santa Clara’s role as a “pioneer” last season in terms of “commitment and intensity.” He suggested this approach influenced other teams, demonstrating that budget alone is not always sufficient for success.
The Liga Betclic fixture between Santa Clara and Gil Vicente is scheduled for Monday at 7:45 PM local time (UTC+1) at Estádio Cidade de Barcelos. Sérgio Guelho from the Guarda Football Association will officiate the match.