The coach looks at a Champions League meeting with Bologna FC 1909

This Wednesday, at 8pm local time, Sporting Clube de Portugal host Bologna FC 1909 in the UEFA Champions League league phase.

Before a decisive game for the team, coach Rui Borges addressed the media in his pre-match press conference, saying that progressing in the competition "is everyone's desire."

"We will try to play at our best. I am convinced that we can reach the playoffs and that they will play to win, despite a draw being enough for us to go through."

Bologna FC 1909 are already out of the running for the next stage, but the coach does not anticipate an easy game.

"They have only one defeat in the last 12 games, and are a very competitive team who are very physical. It's going to be difficult. It's a UEFA Champions League game, in a competition where the best teams in Europe compete, hence the difficulties of every match," warned Borges.

Regarding his squad's fitness, with several players at less than 100%, Borges insisted that "Sporting CP will go into any game or competition to win. We want to be competitive; the club and its history demand this. We will do well with any XI we put out. I have complete confidence in my players."

However, he acknowledged that Viktor Gyökeres and Hidemasa Morita have "accumulated fatigue” and are in doubt for the match.

“They have to be managed on a daily basis. We have done our best, with a lot of dialogue between the departments, players and coaches, so that the interests of the team and Sporting CP are always prioritised," he explained.

Finally, when asked about the transfer market, Borges gave a message of optimism, confidence and ambition.

"We have a willing, capable squad that have given a good response in games. I'm very happy with the players we have. We all really want to be back-to-back champions. That's the focus, the objective. Regardless of the position and how long they play, everyone wants to help the team, and as a coach nothing makes me happier."