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Daily Record
Daily Record
Sport
Mark Walker

Braga boss gets Rangers vote of confidence after Europa League draw

Ricardo Sa Pinto has been handed the dreaded vote of confidence by Braga's president ahead of their Europa League clash with Rangers.

Rangers were drawn to play Braga in the last 32 tie of the Europa League this week, with the first leg at Ibrox in February.

But Braga - who finished fourth in the Portuguese League last season - are currently languishing in eighth place this season and their fans demanded under-pressure manager Sa Pinto be fired after their disappointing 1-0 weekend home defeat to Pacos de Ferreira.

However, the club's president, Antonio Salvador insists there is no chance of a change.

He said: "We are sad about the way the season has gone in the league so far, but I truly believe we will achieve all our aims this season.

"I understand the frustration and sadness of our supporters. My message to them is to believe in the team and back them.

(Getty Images)

"We have a wonderful coach in Ricardo Sa Pinto. I maintain great confidence in him and his players."

Meanwhile, Braga's director of football, former Brazilian winger Alan, can't wait to face Rangers again after playing at Ibrox twice already.

He said: "I have played at Ibrox for Maritimo and for Porto. They were fantastic occasions and Rangers are a great club.

"Their supporters are very passionate and they have a great history in European football.

"We know all about Rangers because of how well they played against Porto twice in the groups.

"But we are slowly making our own piece of European history and I think there will be two great games."

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