​The coach talks about the 3-0 triumph over Rio Ave FC

In his post-match press conference following the 3-0 win over Rio Ave FC (3-0), Sporting Clube de Portugal coach Rúben Amorim expressed his satisfaction with the performance.

“We improved in our buildup, which was much faster, and our reaction to losing the ball was much stronger. Even with set pieces, we went over much earlier to prepare them, we took care of the details of things, and when that is the case we are a difficult team to beat and even to create problems against. I want to highlight the important role that Luís Neto played in this. In a team with so many young players, sometimes we get a little distracted and we pay for it. He raises the level of aggression and concentration, with his experience,” he began by saying.

“I liked everything: The way we reacted to losing the ball, the way we played, the way we attacked space... It was a very good victory for us, the feeling of winning is good and we are used to it, which is important. Now it's over, and it's on to the next one.”

Amorim also hailed the form of Pedro Gonçalves, who was decisive by scoring two goals.

“Last year he had a more difficult time, but now he is in good form and he feels better physically. He had a problem with his foot but he treated it well during the holidays, and the medical department were important for that. After a few days off, he came back early and he knows he has to perform at the best level. He's very important for us but now he has keep it going; he can give much more because he missed two goals that he could have scored."

On Matheus Nunes' performance, he said “I'm satisfied with his game, and he scored a great goal."

“We'll see next week about how we have developed. We have to think that this game is over, the feeling is good but now we have to prepare for the next one. Regardless of the result and the performance, we would have been prepared to play at the Estádio do Dragão against a great team. Today everyone played well, we were intense and focused."

“It is also worth mentioning the fans. The atmosphere they created at Alvalade was as good as always, and the way they supported Ricardo Esgaio when he came on was very intelligent. When any of the players need extra support, Sportinguistas are aware of it."

Amorim also spoke about the absence of the injured Paulinho, who could also miss O Clássico against FC Porto.

“We can play differently with and without him. I feel more relaxed when I see the players' attitude, concentration and the way they were on the pitch. Obviously I feel more relaxed because we won, but I am aware of the differences that we will find at O Dragão. I will prepare the game in the same way as always, knowing that the only area poacher forward is not available and we will play in another way."