Sp. Braga coach Carlos Vicens expressed his disappointment following their 0-1 defeat to Nacional da Madeira at the Estádio Municipal de Braga. Vicens emphasized the need for a higher level of intensity and commitment from his team to compete effectively.
Vicens: 'We Must Offer More'
"It was a disappointing match. We showed a side of ourselves that we didn't want to see," Vicens stated. "We came from a game with tremendous intensity, effort, and competitiveness. That's the minimum we have to offer as a team – that demand for sacrifice, work, and commitment. When that's not present, it becomes difficult."
Struggles on the Pitch
Vicens highlighted the team's struggles in winning duels and securing second balls, impacting their ability to build from the back, as they had done in previous matches against Guimarães and Feyenoord. He stressed the importance of continuous improvement, starting immediately, not just for big games or Europa League matches.
"There are no excuses. We know the calendar is what it is. We have to give everything we have on the field, and if we have to make changes to refresh the team, we will do that. Without the level I emphasized, we don't have the capacity to compete."
A String of Unfortunate Events
Vicens acknowledged the team's winless streak in five games and attributed it to a combination of factors affecting their competitiveness. "We can't hide. We have to be able to offer our best version every day. We need a minimum to compete at the highest level. We will analyze and work to improve."
Witi's Unbelievable Miss
In other news from the match, Nacional player Witi experienced a moment he'll likely never forget. During the game, Witi missed a clear goal-scoring opportunity, first being denied by an incredible save from Lukáš Horníček and then hitting the post. This double miss quickly went viral, adding to Nacional's frustration and Sp. Braga's relief.
The match, ultimately won by Sp. Braga 1-0, was filled with emotional moments and surprises, but Witi's miss stood out as particularly memorable and unfortunate.