The coach's analysis of the 2-1 win against CD Santa Clara

Following the final whistle in Friday's 2-1 victory over CD Santa Clara, Sporting CP coach Rúben Amorim analysed the game in his post-match press conference.

"It was a very tough game. CD Santa Clara did very well, with changes in their positions and playing with five defenders. We had some difficulty with losing a lot of balls without pressure from the opponent in the second half, as we were very rushed. We often had the three centre backs in space and put the ball upfield. The main issue was the passivity of the team and the lack of energy, which is something very important for us. In the final minutes, even on the bench, everyone had a breakthrough moment when we realised we could drop points. We turned it up a gear and ended up scoring", the coach said.

"We know that we have to always be very intense and strong, at all times. The opposition are always at the limit, want to win and want to be the first team to beat Sporting CP. That is part of being a big club. We always have to be at the top of our game, in all aspects. Today we didn’t do that".

Amorim admitted that the showing against CD Santa Clara was one of the least intense and energetic of the season so far, adding that "it was, perhaps, our worst performance, because even with LASK, when we lost 1-4 at home, there was energy and intensity. Today there was at least a lot of belief from the players".

Regarding his choice of Matheus Nunes on the right wing over João Pereira, Amorim explained what he had intended.

"João has played for a few games and I wanted a more attacking and faster player in that position. Matheus has had more training time with us, and we also have to take advantage of Matheus' form. I trust João and when he should play, he will".

"Nunes has a much higher ceiling than I did as a player. He is not going to have a coach who will always change his position. Before this game, I told him that he will have a great career, be a great player and earn a lot of money in his position, but when the team needs it, even the goalkeeper has to play where we say", he concluded.