Os Dragões returned to action with a 2-0 defeat of Estrela da Amadora 2-0 in the first leg of Taça de Portugal semi-final at Estádio do Dragão.Prior to the match Jesualdo Ferreira's firmly stated Porto's stated goal of hoisting the trophy:
"We really want to win this competition. Players, coaches, directors and fans all share the will to conquer the Portuguese Cup and we know that, in order to reach it, we have to overcome Estrela. We haven’t won anything yet, but our will is very strong."
Executing his plan to perfection, the match was effectively a perfect confidence builder ahead of the great test of Manchester United in the Champions League as Porto clicked with all cylinders working in unison. With a global back-line of Milan Stepanov, Bruno Alves, Aly Cissokho and Romanian international Cristian Săpunaru, Porto maintained perfect shape and quality marking throughout the match. After a patient opening, Porto erupted with two goals in four minutes. First Lucho González connecting from the spot eleven minutes from the break to make it 1-0 and only four minutes later Raul Meireles doubled the margin. Whilst Porto had opportunities to increase the margin the match concluded without further mark.
Photo Credit: Futebol Clube do Porto
