Porto coach Francesco Farioli says his team are determined to secure their first points in the Champions League when they host Napoli at the Estádio do Dragão. He stressed that Porto approach every game with the same aim: to win, while acknowledging the quality of their opponents.
Porto have won all 10 of their league matches but lost each of their three Champions League games so far: away to Manchester and Sevilla, and at home against PSV Eindhoven. Farioli said his side must show the right determination to change that run. He expects a closely contested match, with the outcome likely to depend on how the teams handle key moments.
Asked about Napoli’s absences, Farioli said he did not believe the injuries would give Porto an advantage. He described Napoli as a strong, competitive team with quality players and said Porto had considered several possible line-ups, preparing for different scenarios both at the start and during the match.
Porto will be without William Gomes. Oskar Pietuszewski has trained with the team, but Farioli said the club would assess his condition before deciding whether he can play. The coach was also asked about his past links with Napoli, replying that those contacts had run their course, while leaving open what the future might bring.
Farioli is expected to set Porto up in a 4-3-3 formation, with Diogo Costa in goal. Alberto Costa, Bednarek, Kiwior and Sanusi are projected to form the defence, with Rosario, Froholdt and Gabri Veiga in midfield. Sainz and Pepê are expected to play wide, while André Silva or Aghehowa could lead the attack.
Sources: ANSA Sport.