Philippa Patau expects “more confidence” in the derby, but warns: “We are stronger this year” – Women’s Football

Benfica coach does not consider tomorrow’s match decisive

Benfica women’s soccer team coach, Philippa Patau, said today, Saturday, that she expects Sporting to have the same dynamic on Sunday in the championship derby, which she does not consider decisive.

The three-time league champion reaches the eighth round with a record of victories and a five-point difference over Sporting de Braga and Sporting FC, which they host, starting at 2:30 pm.

“Sporting have returned to their initial shape, 3x4x3, in the square, and we hope that they will maintain this dynamic that was also popular in past seasons and now they have also returned to this system, a system that will probably give them more comfort.” This was stated by the red coach in the press conference.

Therefore, Filipa Patau says he expects “a more confident sport.”

Benfica arrives at the Lisbon derby after a 1-0 win over Sporting de Braga and overcoming Swedish side Rosengard in the Champions League, without fatigue being an issue.

He explained, “There is the issue of motivation and confidence that these European matches bring. I have always said that we are stronger this year.”

Despite the advantage, Filipa Patau refuses to let the “big” matches decide the tournament.

“Apart from the two games against Braga and Sporting, where we have to be competent and score points, we also have to continue our quality in the other games we have in the league, and that’s where the difference will be – if we don’t do that.” “We will not lose points anywhere,” he concluded.

Portuguese international defender Lucia Alves admitted to some accumulated fatigue, due to the large number of matches.

“It’s always complicated, because fatigue always comes to the fore, but I think the mentality you have to have is to be strong and play every three days or whatever. We want to be at our maximum and that’s what our fans can expect from us.” “, male.

Benfica will host Sporting on Sunday, starting at 2:30 pm, at Seixal Stadium, in a match moderated by Filipa Cunha, from the Viana do Castelo Federation.

This will be the second derby this season, after the “Reds” won 3-0, on penalties, in the Super Cup final, on September 13, after a 0-0 draw in regular time.

By Lusa