Ricardo Horta wants Sp. Braga to have a better image in the Conference League.

Ricardo Horta, captain of Sp. Braga, is determined to improve his team’s image in the upcoming Conference League match, following a narrow victory over Zeleznicar Pancevo, where his penalty goal secured a 1-0 win in Serbia. Horta expressed hope that in the second leg, the Minho side can elevate their level of play in front of their home crowd, emphasizing the importance of establishing themselves as a strong team at home.

The player admitted that Sp. Braga faced difficulties in the first match, particularly regarding the quality of their opponent’s play. “It was clear that we faced a team that knew how to play, especially in their build-up, with quality in ball circulation, and that’s where we felt the difficulties. But I feel that tomorrow will be different,” Horta said, referring to the upcoming match. The captain stressed that at home, the team must show personality and confidence, hoping for better signs on the pitch.

Ricardo Horta reiterated Sp. Braga’s intention to take the field with a winning mentality. “We will go in wanting to win the game, especially in a knockout round like this. We have a good advantage, but we want to go in to win, score many goals, and improve our game,” he said, expressing confidence in his team’s ability to pose more challenges to their opponents than in the first leg.

Questioned about his dreams for this season, Horta preferred to focus on the present. “I don’t know what to tell you, because my thoughts are on today’s training and tomorrow’s game. I don’t want to be here making promises; my next dream is to win the game tomorrow,” he emphasized. At the same time, he acknowledged the evolution of the squad and the club, stating that the start in the championship will be better than in the previous season. “Yes, of course. I think that is noticeable within the squad and the club; we have a consolidated process,” he stated.

Finally, Horta shared his ongoing motivation for football. “It’s the passion I have for football; it’s my life. My first toy was a ball; I’ve been playing since I was three years old, and that’s what motivates me,” he concluded. Although he is about to turn 32, the captain of Sp. Braga remains focused on challenges and on doing better each time.