Forward Ricardo Horta believes Sporting de Braga has a real chance to win the Europa League, promising “a great response” ahead of their home match against Real Betis on Wednesday, the first leg of the quarter-finals.
“We are prepared and highly motivated for this phase of the Europa League. Braga does not reach this stage every year, and facing Betis in the quarter-finals is special. They are very competitive, fifth in the Spanish league, one of the toughest in the world. All the ingredients are set for a great game, and we want to show what kind of team we are,” said Braga’s captain in a press conference.
When asked if Betis is a favorite to win the competition, Horta replied: “They are one of the favorites, just like us and all the other teams in the tournament.”
Horta emphasized that Betis has high-quality players, including several internationals, but Braga is well-prepared and aims to show its personality and quality: “We want to play a great match and demonstrate the club we are.”
Read more about this topic: Europa League: Betis to face Braga in the quarter-finals (with video)
The 31-year-old Portuguese international, completing his 10th consecutive season at Braga, is the club’s record-holder for appearances and goals. He is five goals shy of his personal best of 24 from the 2019/20 season, but stressed that breaking records is not his priority.
“I prefer winning games over scoring goals or making assists. I always put the team first. If I contribute with goals or assists, the team is closer to victory. My goal is to do my job on the field and help the team achieve wins, that’s why I’m paid,” Horta stated.
Sporting de Braga vs Real Betis kicks off at 17:45 on Wednesday at the Estádio Municipal de Braga, with German referee Felix Zwayer officiating.
