Sporting 2-0 Porto: match reaction

Paulo Bento, Sporting coach:

“We played a very good first half – we were clearly better than FC Porto. We gave them just one opportunity from the only error we committed and we created several dangerous goalscoring chances. The second half was more balanced, without any great opportunities.”

“In extra time we adopted a different system. We didn’t manage to adapt to the tactics nor the numerical superiority and we didn’t take advantage of the numerical advantage, and left ourselves a bit exposed to FC Porto’s counter-attacks.

“But after the first goal everything got easier, and the second goal killed off the game. We beat a great club in the final and we eliminated another big club in the semi-final. This trophy is just.”

Jesulado Ferreira, FC Porto coach:

“It was not a good game; both teams looked fatigued. We started the match badly and were a bit better in the second half. With only 10 men, it became more difficult.

I believe there were opportunities for both teams and in extra time there was the moment of the match. There was a foul against Lisandro. There were doubts if it was a penalty or not, but in the very next opportunity, Sporting scored. Our opponents ended up controlling the game; we lost our organisation. We lost a final that we did not deserve to lose because of the way we fought. That moment was decisive.”

Rodrigo Tiui, Sporting striker:

“It’s difficult to dream of a moment like this one. I am, naturally, happy and the team have always given me their support despite the criticism I received for not having scored goals.

“All of my colleagues believed in me, as I did. I am now only getting started at Sporting. I still have a lot to achieve. This is my first title in Portugal so tomorrow I will give more meaning to this conquest. Now I will celebrate. I dedicate these two goals to the entire group.”

Anderson Polga, Sporting central defender:

“It was a special victory after a tumultuous year in so many respects, but I believe that it was deserved because the players never stopped giving anything less than their best. This group, given how young they are, demonstrated great maturity.

“The coaching staff also have excellent qualities; they have always done a good job. I believe that no-one deserves this title more than our team, and the fans as well. Despite the bad moments, they have always supported us.”

Joao Moutinho, Sporting captain:

“We played a great match. Congratulations go out to the club’s board of directors and the supporters. Liedson is an important piece of our team. Unfortunately, he could not be here today. This victory is also for him and we will be with Liedson to celebrate the Cup.”

Raul Meireles, FC Porto midfielder:

“We feel extremely disappointed and, sincerely, this game was an embarrassment. Apito Dourado (Golden Whistle corruption investigation) is always talked about and how FC Porto were the benefactors, but I believe this game says it all.

“Lisandro suffered a foul, which was a penalty and the referee did not award it and right after they scored a goal. Paulo Assuncao saw a yellow in the first half and Grimi had three fouls and did not see a thing. Afterwards, Pedro Emanuel almost breaks his nose and, again, nothing happened. This is all I have to say.”


Sporting 2-0 FC Porto: match report