FC Porto advanced to the Allianz Cup semifinals following a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Académico de Viseu at the Estádio do Dragão, as reported by RTP. The result places the team managed by Francesco Farioli alongside Sporting CP in the tournament’s final four, setting the stage for the remaining quarterfinal fixtures between Benfica and Gil Vicente, and Sporting de Braga hosting Famalicão, as detailed by Notícias ao Minuto.
FC Porto Advances Past Académico de Viseu at Estádio do Dragão
FC Porto utilized heavy squad rotation to rest regular starters while overcoming a high-pressing Académico de Viseu side. Farioli deployed an unfamiliar tactical setup featuring three central defenders to address width limitations in his squad. The decisive moment arrived just before halftime when Martim Fernandes delivered a cross that saw Juan Soriano punch the ball against Hugo Gambor’s hand. The referee awarded a penalty, which was confirmed by the video assistant referee and successfully converted by Giménez. Giménez had earlier struck the post in the 25th minute following an attacking move initiated by Souza down the left flank.
Farioli Praises Tactical Adjustment and Squad Depth
Speaking to Sport TV after the match, manager Francesco Farioli expressed satisfaction with the performance of his less-frequently used players and the team’s defensive control. As reported by Jornal de Notícias, Farioli noted that while the team lacked some presence in the penalty area, the players adapted smoothly to the three-defender structure—a system he previously utilized during his time managing in Turkey. Farioli emphasized the club’s objective to win every available trophy, noting the disappointment of missing out on the final four during the previous campaign.
Second Half Chances and Defensive Scares
Académico de Viseu tested Porto’s defense during the second half. At the 57th minute, Gabriel Mec played a pass to Alan Varela, whose shot hit the side netting. A defensive miscue by the Argentine midfielder in the 65th minute allowed André Clóvis a clear run on goal against Cláudio Ramos, but the Porto goalkeeper thwarted the attempt. Referee reviews for a potential penalty on the play resulted in play continuing. Later in the half, Mec forced Soriano into a difficult save from outside the area in the 69th minute, while Soriano also denied subsequent efforts from Giménez and Hwang Inbeom.
Upcoming Quarterfinals Complete the Final Four Lineup
With FC Porto and Sporting CP already through, the final two spots in the tournament’s final four will be decided by Thursday’s fixtures. Benfica prepares to host Gil Vicente, while Sporting de Braga welcomes Famalicão to round out the quarterfinal schedule. Pre-match coverage has also highlighted Braga’s meeting with Famalicão alongside Benfica’s fixture preparations, as noted by Notícias ao Minuto and RTP.
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