João Pedro Sousa on Tondela Clash: “Crucial Game, Not Do-or-Die”
João Pedro Sousa, coach of AVS SAD, is preparing for a pivotal match against Tondela. The game is set for Sunday at 15:30 as part of the 9th round of the Primeira Liga. Sousa emphasized its significance but refrained from labeling it a “do-or-die” scenario.
Importance of the Match
“Every game is crucial for us at this point,” Sousa stated. He acknowledged their current league standing and the necessity to close gaps with other teams. However, he avoided dramatizing the situation. “It’s vital to win, but we must maintain focus without dwelling on negative outcomes,” he added.
Team Progress and Improvement
The coach noted that the team has been training exceptionally well. “The players show clear competitive spirit and growing motivation to turn things around. I feel we’re improving our overall performance,” Sousa mentioned.
Reflections on Past Matches
Regarding their last match against Santa Clara, Sousa expressed disappointment with the officiating. “We faced a poor call that hurt our chances for a better result. I usually refrain from criticizing referees, but this was an obvious mistake,” he said.
Despite the frustrations, he highlighted progress in certain areas. “We begin games well but need to extend those periods of positive play. Defensively, we’re improving, but we must be more aggressive offensively—creating chances, shooting more, and scoring goals are essential for victories,” Sousa remarked.
Preparing for Tondela
Looking ahead to Tondela, Sousa anticipates a team that will stay true to its playing style. “I know the coach and how his teams perform. I don’t expect them to settle for a draw; they’re an attacking team that plays with intensity and width. We need to be ready for that challenge,” he explained.
A Message of Confidence
João Pedro Sousa closed with an optimistic note, urging his team to embrace the future with ambition and determination. “The path to turning our situation around lies in hard work and believing we can win the next game,” he concluded.
