Farioli backs Moffi to shine as Porto prepare for Europa League decider against Nottingham Forest

FC Porto head coach Francesco Farioli has expressed confidence in Nigerian striker Terem Moffi ahead of the club’s decisive UEFA Europa League quarter-final clash with Nottingham Forest.

Moffi, who joined the Portuguese giants from OGC Nice in January, endured a relatively quiet outing in the first leg of the tie, which ended in a 1–1 draw.

The 26-year-old forward was substituted early in the second half after struggling to make a significant impact against Forest’s disciplined defence.

The Nigerian international was also named among the substitutes in Porto’s 3–1 league victory over Estoril Praia last weekend, raising questions about his starting role ahead of the crucial European fixture.

However, Farioli has thrown his support behind the striker, insisting that both Moffi and Francisco Moura have shown commitment and professionalism in training.

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“Both Francisco Moura and Terem Moffi have been giving everything they have,” Farioli said while addressing the media ahead of the return leg. “Their attitude has been excellent, and we believe they can contribute when called upon.”

Moffi has scored one goal in three Europa League appearances for Porto since his mid-season arrival, and the coaching staff will be hoping his physical presence and attacking instincts can provide the cutting edge needed to secure progression to the semi-finals.

Porto are aiming to capitalise on home advantage as they seek to overcome the Premier League side and keep their European ambitions alive. The encounter is expected to be tightly contested, with both teams still firmly in contention following the balanced first-leg result.

For Moffi, the upcoming fixture presents an opportunity to silence doubters and cement his place in Farioli’s attacking plans as the season approaches its decisive phase.