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Borges: “It was a consistent performance” 22 Aug, 2026 The coach’s verdict on the win against FC Alverca Following Sporting Clube de Portugal's 3-1 victory over FC Alverca, coach Rui Borges held a press conference to answer journalists' questions. Analysis of the game "It was a consistent performance, and we were well balanced throughout. We grew in consistency from start to finish, which is what we really wanted. Of course, the team want to grow in that sense. We started very well, scored a goal and then lost some individual confidence, but we never let FC Alverca grow and believe. We controlled the game. In the second half, we grew and understood the spaces better. Even when we were tired, we managed to stay focused and with high energy. The only time we lowered our level a little, we conceded a goal. Making mistakes and still winning is important for the team, especially for those who have just arrived." Changes in the starting lineup "It was a tactical choice based on the week’s work and the strategy for the game." Luis Suárez "He's looking for his best form. He played a good game, helping both to defend and attack. He scored a goal, which is normal for a great striker like him." The centre back pairing "This duo of Zeno Debast and Ibrahima Ba was important in today's strategy. It gave me more guarantees, we felt, and that's why they played. The same with Iván Fresneda." Fotis Ioannidis "He wasn't 100% and we opted not to play him." The importance of winning and playing better "It's good to win. We want to play well, but even without playing well we have to be more consistent. We are very far from what we want in our offensive play. We are having good moments, but without much consistency. It will take time, but it's important to fail to win. Growth is natural and I have no doubt that we will have great games in the future. Today we played a balanced game." The team’s growth and changes "There are no two identical players and we are learning, as a coaching staff, with what we have signed. Growth won't happen overnight. We're not going to be the same team as last season; we'll be better at some things and not good at others. We're not looking for a different profile. We're looking for players for specific positions and we've chosen these." Geny Catamo "He's happy at Sporting CP. He's been playing well, showing commitment and happiness. He's always known the confidence he has from the coach and the staff. I'm very happy with the response from him. The attention he receives is natural; he's a great player. It's natural that people talk about him and other Sporting CP players moving to other clubs. In terms of support from the fans, any player likes to feel that affection." Nestory Irankunda "FC Alverca were more exposed when he came on, and Nestory Irankunda plays further forward than Jesse Derry. He has very good characteristics that we like a lot. I believe that, in the future, he will be very important for the team." The performance "We're far from where we want to be. The players are trying to grow, like Rodrigo Zalazar or Flávio Gonçalves. Sergi Altimira was important in the first half. At many moments, he was the free man, providing the link-up play. He had a great game, was really focused and was well positioned with and without"