Portuguese media praise former Ajax boss Farioli: “FC Porto played like a pack of wolves” | OneFootball

The Portuguese media were full of praise for Francesco Farioli after the Italian made his official debut as head coach of FC Porto on Monday evening, as they beat Vitória Guimarães 3-0.

A goal from Pepê and a brace from Samu Aghehowa sealed a touching day as club legend Jorge Costa’s premature death (53) was honoured, providing an emotive undertone to an important performance.

“Farioli has restored the spirit of the Dragon”, began the leading newspaper A Bola’s analysis of FC Porto’s performance. “Under his predecessor, the team was uncertain, but now we’re back to an exciting, aggressive team that shows courage.”

“Vitória were walking around dejected. And that’s thanks to Farioli and the club’s management. A financial effort was made to strengthen the squad, but that process was successful. FC Porto has risen like a phoenix from the ashes. Thanks to the dynamism imposed by the Italian coach.”

The paper’s glowing report continued, “FC Porto’s aggression was incredible. All over the pitch, minor fouls were committed to hinder the opponent. Eighteen in total. This allowed FC Porto to always regroup, position themselves, and create conditions to never put the defense under pressure. Farioli set a clear direction. And even the attackers cooperated, working incredibly hard when they lost possession. FC Porto played like a pack of wolves. Fast, ruthless.”

Público also wrote about Farioli’s positive impact. “The team showed they could practically do it all. High intensity, high pressure, constant movement, and perfect play when they lost possession. In possession, there were many short passes and combinations. This is what Farioli stands for. And he immediately put it into practice at FC Porto. The team has developed a brutal mentality. Defending together, quickly regaining possession, and then finding a way forward.”

GBeNeFN | Max Bradfield