“Bednarek appeals to forget Martim’s own goal to move forward.”

In the aftermath of the bitter draw between FC Porto and Nottingham Forest (1-1), Polish defender Jan Bednarek did not hide his disappointment with the decisive own goal by Martim Fernandes, which ultimately cost the Porto team dearly. However, Bednarek delivered a clear and firm message: the team urgently needs to turn the page and focus on the upcoming challenges to maintain the strength it has demonstrated throughout the season.

“We played a good game, created several opportunities, and showed quality football. Conceding that goal, especially due to an unfortunate moment like Martim’s own goal, is naturally disappointing,” admitted the defender in statements to SportTV. “We tried to react, fought until the end, but it is essential that we quickly forget what happened. We are always together, and it is this unity that has been our greatest strength this season.”

Jan Bednarek reiterated the importance of maintaining focus, this time in an interview with Porto Canal, where he emphasized the need to be more effective in finishing. “We had numerous chances to score, and if we had been more aggressive in the opponent’s area, this could have been a great night for us. Still, there are many positive aspects we can take into the second leg, where we will enter confidently.”

The Polish central defender did not shy away from looking towards the near future, highlighting the importance of the match against Estoril at this crucial stage of the season. “After the disappointment with Famalicão, we showed a strong response tonight, with good football and improvements in our goal-scoring moments. We are very motivated, hungry for more victories, and we know we can evolve even further.”

Finally, Bednarek had a special word for the Porto fans, calling for unconditional unity even in difficult times. “I ask you to continue supporting us. This game was tough for everyone, especially for Martim, but the Porto family knows how to stay united in good and bad times. If we stay together – club, team, and fans – I believe we can achieve great things by the end of the season.”

In the same context, the coach of FC Porto lamented the lack of a killer instinct that could have decided the game, while the Porto midfielder also analyzed the draw against Nottingham, in a match marked by the misfortune of the own goal that changed the course of the tie.

The stage is set: FC Porto will need to show resilience, correct finishing errors, and maintain the flame of unity to overcome this obstacle and continue fighting for ambitious goals this season. The pressure is mounting, but the determination of the Porto squad is also rising – and Jan Bednarek is a strong voice in that battle.

This article first appeared on Apito Final.