Santa Clara coach Vasco Matos emphasized his team’s “great ambition” and strategic discipline Tuesday, ahead of their Allianz Cup quarter-final clash against formidable Sporting de Braga.
Matos told reporters his team earned their place in the quarter-finals by merit and is determined to advance further. “We are competing for this access by our own merit and for what we did last season. Therefore, we have the ambition to pass. A lot of ambition,” he stated.
He acknowledged the power of their opponent, Sporting de Braga, describing them as being in a “good moment” with strong collective and individual quality. “We know the opponent’s power, but we have our weapons. We go with great ambition to be able to be in the ‘final four’,” Matos added.
The coach stressed the importance of “rigor” and “intelligence” from his squad during the match. He affirmed his coaching staff’s belief in every player.
Matos urged players to interpret the game smartly, particularly noting Braga’s dynamic offensive play and shifting player positions. “We have to be very intelligent in interpreting the game,” he warned.
He demanded rigorous performance both offensively and defensively, along with sustained concentration throughout the full 90 minutes. When in possession, Santa Clara must ensure good field coverage and defined positioning for strong defensive balance.
The quarter-final match is scheduled for Wednesday evening at 18:15 local time (UTC+0), taking place at the Braga Municipal Stadium. David Rafael Silva, affiliated with the Porto Football Association, will officiate the game.