Abel Ferreira After Goalless Draw vs. Porto: “We Did Everything Right… Except Score”

Palmeiras opened their FIFA Club World Cup campaign with a frustrating 0-0 draw against FC Porto, despite dominating much of the match. After the final whistle, head coach Abel Ferreira expressed both pride in his team’s performance and disappointment over the missed chances.

“I think it was a balanced game, but the best chances were ours. Football is magical that way: they lose one of their best players, the goalkeeper, and then the backup (Cláudio Ramos) comes in and ends up being their best on the field,” said Abel. Ramos, stepping in for the injured Diogo Costa, delivered a standout performance with four or five spectacular saves.

In one of the group stage matchups that were considered more balanced in the run-up, Palmeiras controlled possession, pressed high, and created multiple scoring opportunities, particularly through youngster Estevão. “We pressed well, we created chances… all that was missing was the goal. Everything else was there. Unfortunately, it didn’t happen,” the coach lamented.

Now, Palmeiras shifts its attention to their second Group A match against Al Ahly of Egypt, scheduled for Thursday afternoon. A win will be crucial to stay in contention for a place in the knockout rounds.