Bernardo Fontes, player of Sporting Braga, in statements to journalists in the mixed zone, after the victory, this Thursday, before the People (2-0), in play of the 2nd day of the League's single league phase Conference.
© Getty Images
22/10/2026
by
News to Minutes
How were these first two days of work with Franclim Carvalho? “They were good, they were good. The group is also a very open group to listen, it is a very humble group. And the steward already knew some of us and came to gather us. It was a good day.”
Coach praised your defense with Gent who stopped the tie.. “I’m happy. I'm here to help. The goal of a goalkeeper is whenever the team needs to be there to intervene and help. I work daily with my companions and with my goalkeeper coach for this.”
What do you think failed Carlos Vicens? “ I don't think much missed, of course the results didn't show up. I believe we have often missed a hint of luck, which is also needed in football. We had results that, in my opinion, with some different details, in the game with Sporting and Gil, could have been different. Even in Copenhagen, if you remember, we had an invalid goal, which was 1-1. Here, I don't know, it was a whole different game. We also had a dubious decision against Sporting, didn't we? At least doubtful, a penalti. And also against Gil here at home, we had a clear foul. We also had a penalti which would be at least a draw. But we are also self-critical and lacked some things, but these are things to correct internally and we are here to look to the future.”
Feel the weight of having to replace Hornicek? “No, I don’t feel that much weight. Lucas is a friend I have. I grew up here in training with him. I wish him a lot, I have no doubt he'll make a beautiful career. But I'm here to make my way, I'm too humble. I know my strengths and what I have to evolve and I’m ready for this.”
And would you also like one day to get where he came from? “ Sure, but today I'm not focused here on Braga. When I got here at 17 it was my dream to be here where I am today. And I love the club, I love the city and I am very happy to be here.”
Sp. Braga has a tradition of putting goalkeepers in national selection. There's that possibility open. How have you managed that expectation? “ Today I'm focused on asserting myself in Braga, it's doing a good season around here. Of course, being international is a child's dream. It's a sign you're on the right track. But today my first thought is to focus on Braga, do my best. And if the selector thinks I am in a position to help, I would be very happy.”
Do you speak in Portuguese? “ Could be, could be good too. I would be very happy!”

