Busy day so finally getting round to writing how I felt.
Good result, OK performance. First 30 mins we were pretty good with the right hand side being a real outlet. Thought it was simply going to be a matter of time before we scored (although despite all the good positions we didn’t really create anything decent except a deflected shot and an opportunistic shot from Raul).
Although as the game went into the second half we started to struggle. We were given a lifeline by the penalty. But for some bizarre reason Neves took it, despite us having one of the best takers on the planet on the pitch. Think I’ve seen him miss more than he’s scored now too. His technique isn’t even good. Doesn’t wait out the Keeper, just stops and telegraphs where it’s going to go. Either smash it like Milner with disguise, place it in a spot the keeper can’t save it with power or wait out the keeper.
Thought Neto was pretty ineffective, not sure he’s ready to start games and be a threat regularly. Didn’t seem to have enough pace to trouble them and his crossing was woeful. Vinagre didn’t offer much either. Not sure why we think he will be better further forward, loads of step overs but no end product. His crossing is only marginally better than Traore, but Traore makes up for it with sheer volume. Vinagre never actually beat him man when 1 v 1 (still did 20 step overs though).
Kilman was solid, very comfortable on the ball. Lost pretty much every aerial challenge to their number 9 which is strange considering he’s such a big lad. Doc was alright, except he got in behind several times but again the key pass was lacking. Twice smashing it into the defenders shins with so much time and space. Should have scored as well, either take a touch or head it far post.
Neves and Moutinho controlled the game. Raul played very well. Just didn’t quite have the service. If Jota plays we probably win comfortably but he’s suspended and we lack any significant quality behind the first team still. Without him and Traore I think we’d struggle to score goals at all, and we’re not exactly prolific at the minute.
Still, got the job done and now just need to beat Braga to make up for the home defeat to win the group.
