José Saturnino Cardozo, head coach of Municipal Liberia, addressed the media after his team’s recent victory over Sporting FC in the Clausura 2026 tournament. He described the win as a relief for both the locker room and the fans but acknowledged that he feels “in debt” to Liberia’s supporters.
“We are in debt to our fans because this is not what we expected,” Cardozo said.
Despite recent challenges, Cardozo highlighted the team’s attitude and willingness to work harder amid difficult results. He stated that, in his view, the team only played poorly in two matches during the first half of the season. In other games, he felt they created chances and showed a clear playing style but struggled with finishing.
“The opponent comes once or twice and scores. We create many chances but do not convert,” he explained.
Cardozo discussed the team’s lack of goals, noting from his experience as a former striker that scoring requires consistent practice: “Goals do not come by chance; they come through work,” he said.
He emphasized improvements made to regain defensive solidity and collective balance. Cardozo pointed out that a previous schedule with matches on Wednesdays and Saturdays limited tactical and physical preparation—areas he considers crucial.
The coach also mentioned that at times, not all players performed at their best level. Discussions within the squad aimed to help them return to competing for higher positions.
Looking ahead, Cardozo noted that Yoserth Hernández’s expulsion will force changes for their next match. With a small squad featuring several young players still developing, every absence is significant.
When asked about Fernando Batista’s appointment as Costa Rica’s national team manager, Cardozo chose not to comment in detail but wished Batista success in his new role.
With this result, Liberia aims to build momentum in the second half of Clausura 2026 as they seek to address earlier mistakes.
