DIOGO FARINHA, PLAYERS OF FUTURE defender, once again assumed a decisive role in Mafra's defensive axis in the important victory over Quarteirense, by 3-1, in a game counting for the 8th round of the promotion phase of the Nacional de Juniores. With this triumph, the team maintained second place with one point less than leader Casa Pia and one more than Tondela. In addition to topics related to Mafra, DIOGO FARINHA took on the role of national coach, spoke of the love he has for his Sporting team and also revealed his strong desire for the final stretch of the championship.
- Victory against Quarteirense came at the best time?
- Yes, but it was a very complicated game. We managed to take the lead relatively early and from then on we tried to control the game. However, after the second goal we had a less good period where the opponent gained superiority and had chances to score the first. In the second half we started much better and nullified the opponent's ability to create danger. Even so, with the opposing team's first shot in the second half, they manage to score and relaunch the dispute for the three points. From that moment on we were superior and managed to control the game and ended up achieving the calming goal towards the end.
- How do you analyze your performance?
- Overall, I played a good game, maintaining concentration and aggression during the 90 minutes and the work of the entire team ended up resulting in the deserved victory.
- What is Mafra's main objective?
- Without a doubt, climbing is our goal, there are still two finals to go and all scenarios are possible. Optimistic? Of course, promotion to the 1st Division only depends on us. I'm sure that if we maintain the level of work we've been doing throughout games and training, we'll reach the top.
- Here comes the visit to Tondela. Strong emotions in sight?
- There is little to talk about the next game, it is a final. We have a very difficult opponent ahead of us and we are aware of that, with the intense work during the week and the concentration on Saturday we will look for victory in Tondela.
- How are you experiencing the emotions of the Primeira Liga?
- I follow it with great interest, of course. There are several clubs that I hold close to my heart but for me the best is Sporting Clube de Portugal, a club that doesn't need words, has a great history and fantastic fans. It's a club that I've been used to since I was little, and it will always have my support.
- If you were a national coach, which eleven would you choose to defend the national colors?
- The goalkeeper would be Diogo Costa. In defense João Cancelo, Pepe, Rúben Dias and Nuno Mendes, in midfield I would bet on João Palhinha, Bruno Fernandes and Vitinha. In attack, I would opt for Bernardo Silva, Rafael Leão and Cristiano Ronaldo.
- How do you see your next season looking ahead?
- I believe it will be a good season. However, at the moment the focus is only on ensuring promotion with CD Mafra and perhaps something else, such as first place. Let's hope everything goes for the best!
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