Francesco Farioli, the head coach of FC Porto, has thrown his full backing behind loan striker Terem Moffi as the club gear up for a decisive UEFA Europa League quarter-final second leg against Nottingham Forest at the City Ground.
Moffi, who joined Porto on loan during the January transfer window, has endured a difficult period since his arrival in Portugal. The Nigerian forward was substituted in the second half during the first leg at the Estádio do Dragão and was subsequently left on the bench as Porto secured a 3-1 league victory over Estoril Praia — a run of events that has prompted scrutiny over his current form.
Addressing the media at a press conference on Wednesday, Farioli was measured but firm in his defence of the 26-year-old. “Both Francisco Moura and Terem Moffi have been giving everything they have,” the Italian coach said. “Terem is coming off a performance where he made some mistakes, and Francisco also went through a difficult period.”
Farioli also highlighted a notable moment of team unity, crediting squad captain Jardel for helping maintain morale within the group. “The initiative by Jardel, who took both players to the fans, made me very pleased,” Farioli added. “It says a lot about the environment we have here.” The manager underlined the importance of collective focus at this stage of the competition, stating: “At this final stage, it’s important to have everyone on board.”
Moffi has managed one goal in three UEFA Europa League appearances for Porto since joining the club. With the second leg of the quarter-final approaching, the striker will be looking to make a decisive contribution as Porto bid to advance to the semi-finals of the competition.
The match at the City Ground represents a significant opportunity for Moffi, who has previously spoken about the personal importance of representing a club of Porto’s stature. Porto’s progression to the Europa League quarter-finals has been one of the more prominent storylines of the 2025-26 European campaign, and a place in the last four would mark a milestone moment for the Portuguese outfit.
Nottingham Forest, currently competing in European football for the first time in decades following their return to the Premier League, will present a stern test. The English club’s home record at the City Ground has been a considerable factor in their European run this season.
Should Porto advance, the semi-finals would further cement the club’s standing among Europe’s elite this term — adding greater weight to how Farioli manages his attacking options, including Moffi, in the coming days.
