At 2:45 p.m. in Portugal, UEFA Champions League clubs FC Porto (1-0) and Atletico Madrid (1-0) will try to hand each other their first loss of the Champions League season. Live stream the action here by clicking this link.
FC Porto's coach Paulo Fonseca has an interesting take on why Atletico presents a difficult test for his team today-he believes they play an Italian style in a league not used to seeing it.
"I consider Atletico an Italian team in a Spanish championship," Fonseca said, noting their rigid defensive discipline.
"They are very deep when they defend, but they are also very balanced. We have to be a team which manages all the moments of the game without losing that balance. Also, we need to have lots of patience to find the spaces which are almost non-existent in their defense."
Today's game is the first of two straight for Porto on their home pitch. Fonseca said it's important for his club to take advantage of playing in front of their own fans in this difficult league. "We know the importance of the home games, and it is very important for us to win our next two matches here in order to have a comfortable margin to face what's left of the group."
While Atletico's defensive prowess and structure has impressed Porto's coach, they must also contend with their offense, especially striker Diego Costa. Atletico captain Gabi has raved about Costa's contributions.
"He is a very important player for us, he is indispensable to the team, the team knows what he wants. He is growing as a player and is vital to us," Gabi said.
Gabi also cautioned his team to not be overconfident following a Champions League opening victory, as well as strong play on their homefront.
"We are going to take it step by step and not relax, that's when things go wrong," Gabi said.
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