*This article contains quotes that have been translated from Portuguese*
FC Porto head coach Francesco Farioli expects a “competitive and intense” encounter with Rangers at the Estádio do Dragão despite Danny Rohl’s side being unable to progress from the UEFA Europa League’s league phase regardless of result.
Speaking alongside midfielder Rodrigo Mora ahead of tonight’s fixture, Farioli dismissed any suggestion Porto might ease off, insisting his side will approach the game with full focus and ambition.
“Playing at the Dragão is always special,” he said.
“We expect a very competitive match. From our side there is only one result we play for. We prepare every game in the same demanding way.”
Porto enter the match in very strong domestic form, 18 wins and one draw from 19 matches, and remain well placed in the European standings, with Farioli emphasising the broader value of the fixture beyond simple qualification mathematics.
“The game of tomorrow has big value in several aspects,” he added.
“The players on the pitch will be the ones I feel give us the best chance to win. There is no management mindset - full motivation, full concentration.”
Mora echoed his coach’s outlook, stressing that Porto’s ambition remains high regardless of the opponent’s situation.
“We go game by game, but of course our goal is to go as far as possible,” he said.
“We know Rangers are physical and competitive, but we are prepared for that.”
The Porto boss also rejected the idea his side are suffering physically during a congested schedule, claiming recent performances show the opposite.
“In the last matches we have run more than our opponents, even those playing once a week. There is no fatigue excuse. The team is full of energy and desire,” Farioli said.
Attention then turned to Rangers and head coach Rohl, whom Farioli praised extensively. The German coach’s impact at Ibrox has not gone unnoticed in Portugal.
“His impact has been fantastic,” Farioli said.
“The implementation of his ideas in a short time, the ability to change systems, to build in different ways - this says a lot about his quality.
“Rangers are very lucky to have a coach of this level.”
Despite questions about Rangers elimination, Farioli expects no drop in intensity from the visitors.
“I expect them to come here really competitive with the desire to get a positive result,” he said.
“But for us it’s very clear what we are playing for.”