Carvalhal reflects on Braga’s 3-0 defeat to Roma: “They deserved the win.” | OneFootball

Braga boss Carlos Carvalhal admitted his team struggled to respond after going down early in their 3-0 defeat to Roma.

The Portuguese side were dismantled in the Italian capital, ending the match with 10 men after conceding nearly 20 shots on goal against the Giallorossi.

“I think Roma started well, showing good personality in the first 9-10 minutes, maintaining possession,” Carvalhal explained in his post match press conference.

“They scored on their first chance and hit the crossbar on their second attack. At that point, our team got scared and lost its cohesion. In the second half, we wanted to try to get back into the match, but we conceded a second goal early on, and the red card further complicated things.”

He continued, “Paradoxically, that was perhaps our best moment—we created two or three chances but couldn’t convert them. Overall, considering Roma’s superiority, we could have done more. Their victory was well-deserved.”

“Our first goal was to qualify for European competitions, the second was to focus on the Europa League, and the third was to advance to the next round. I remain optimistic: we still need points, but I am confident we can do it.”

“In the league, we are fifth, just three points off fourth place, and we’ve advanced to the last four of the Portuguese cup. I’m not one to complain about the resources available. I believe strongly in my team and staff.”

Adding, “From a team dynamics perspective, this is probably the most challenging and complex project I’ve taken on. The situation is not easy, but I’m more motivated than ever and convinced that we will succeed in the end.”