​The Sporting CP coach's review of the victory against Portimonense SC

Following the 3-0 triumph over Portimonense SC in Liga Portugal, Sporting CP coach Rúben Amorim was satisfied with the performance from his players, and considered that they were always “very competent and serious” in the game.

“We barely let Portimonense SC reach our goal and we didn't commit many fouls in the offensive midfield, which was one of the ideas for the game, because the opposition have scored a lot of goals from set pieces and are very strong from them. At times we should have moved the ball around more, and there was a period in the first half where we split possession and didn't need to. But we created several opportunities to score, we just weren't as effective as we have been,” said the coach in his post-match press conference.

“In the second half it was more of the same. Even when at a disadvantage, Portimonense SC did not want to break their low block. We controlled them, scored the second goal and then I think everyone in the stadium relaxed a little. The best team won."

He then praised Paulinho, who was named Man of the Match after scoring the first goal and setting up the third.

“Today Paulinho gave what he always gives, but he added goals. It's his best season at Sporting CP in that aspect, but he always offered us a lot because of the way he works. In difficult moments, I highlighted what he gave to the team. He is a very important player for us, and it is always a pleasure to be his coach – that's why I insisted on him coming – and today he once again showed that he has improved. Sometimes he plays less than he deserves, but whenever we have needed him, he responds.”

Amorim also made a point of thanking the 49,557 fans who sold out the stadium, stating that he wants to “win the title to help Sporting CP and also give joy to the fans."

“The wave of support has a huge meaning. When we reach the end of the season, it is normal for there to be enthusiasm. What is not normal is the way in which, since preseason, the fans have backed us from the beginning, after a very difficult season last time. They have played a very important role so far and I want to remind people that, in the year of COVID-19, everyone said that one of the reasons Sporting CP became champions was that there were no fans. They had to respond to this and they responded in the best way possible, but it's not over yet. We need their help to get two more points, and there is a lot to do.”

Despite admitting that winning the title is getting closer and closer, Amorim also noted that there are other objectives remaining.

“We have everything well on the right track. Everyone at Sporting CP already sees and feels the objective. But there is one small step left and we have to focus on that. Furthermore, we do not yet have the best defence in the league. We have two games left and we could do that. I think we will be the best attack, but we'll see. There are milestones that are important for the players and the entire club. We can break the points record, which is important in order to leave a mark at such a big club with such a vast history. The record belongs to Jorge Jesus and it's always good to break records from someone who had a lot of influence on my growth as a player and coach. It would give me great pleasure to break that record.”