SC Braga head coach Joel Rocha admitted that Sporting were the superior side after their convincing 7-2 victory in Game 3 of the Portuguese Futsal Championship semifinals, a result that secured Sporting’s place in the final.
Speaking after the match, Rocha acknowledged Sporting’s efficiency and explained how his team's early lead may have contributed to losing focus on their tactical plan.
“Sporting were much more effective. Taking the lead made us overly enthusiastic and distracted us from the game plan, discipline, and concentration we needed to maintain, even when the ball was out of play. Sporting scored four goals in the first half, three of them from set pieces,” Rocha said.
The Braga coach noted that Sporting controlled the second half and managed the game effectively, preventing his side from mounting a comeback.
“We tried to respond, but we couldn't. Sporting deserved the victory, and I congratulate them on reaching the final. However, this playoff campaign from my players was absolutely phenomenal. We did everything possible to achieve a different result,” he added.
More information about Sporting CP can be found on the club's official website: https://www.sporting.pt
Zicky Té's Equalizer and Sporting's Quality
Rocha also addressed the equalizing goal scored by Sporting star Zicky Té, emphasizing the fine margins involved at the highest level of futsal.
“It was a matter of milliseconds where we were not positioned exactly as we wanted. That happened partly because of the enormous effort we put into the game and partly because Sporting have outstanding players,” he explained.
Learn more about Portuguese futsal competitions through the Portuguese Football Federation: https://www.fpf.pt
SC Braga's Season Ended Better Than It Began
Despite the disappointment of elimination, Rocha expressed pride in how SC Braga recovered from a difficult start to the season.
“It was a season that ended better than it started. SC Braga failed to reach the final eight of either the Portuguese Cup or the League Cup, and those are mandatory objectives for a club of our stature,” he stated.
The coach highlighted the team's resilience during the playoffs, recalling how many observers had written Braga off after an early setback against Ferreira do Zêzere.
“We lost the first playoff game against Ferreira do Zêzere and, on that day, many people thought our season was over. They had already held our funeral and seventh-day mass. But in Game 2, at home in Braga, we were losing 3-1 with ten minutes remaining and still managed to win 4-3.”
Rocha also praised his players for their determination in Game 3 of that series, where they once again came from behind to secure victory and advance to the semifinals.
Looking Ahead
Although SC Braga's title hopes have come to an end, Rocha believes the club demonstrated the quality and fighting spirit required to compete among Portugal’s elite futsal teams.
“We showed character, quality, and resilience. We earned our place in the semifinals, and SC Braga must continue to be present in these decisive moments,” he concluded.
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