Benfica coach Roger Schmidt said this Saturday that he expects Porto to reach Champions League level and that the last two victories this season mean nothing for the classic I Football League.
“We have played twice this season and we know them well, but we also know that they are always difficult to play against. We’re going to win this time not because we won both times. “Porto has changed the composition and If we analyze tactically, they are a very compact team, defend well and in transition moments are ready to win back the second ball and try to attack the space with their forwards,” he noted.
At a press conference dedicated to the match, Roger Schmidt emphasized that back-to-back games with Sporting and Porto in the same week are “the two most difficult games” the Eagles can play, but they will do everything to recover and go on the field. ready.
“We know that Porto is difficult to play and this is an important game for both teams. Porto have shown quality in recent weeks, especially in the Champions League. This is exactly the level we expect tomorrow. [domingo]but we will do our best,” he said.
Roger Schmidt has revealed what Benfica need to do to win the match, adding that Porto’s pressure to move closer to the top two positions is “not decisive” and the stands will have no impact on the match.
“It is not easy to create opportunities against them and we have to be very organized as they are always looking for open space. Playing at home or on a neutral ground is a completely different experience than playing at their stadium. They have a home advantage, but we are ready to fight for 90 minutes to achieve the best possible result,” said the German coach.
In recent games, Roger Schmidt has opted for a mobile attack without a central striker, at a stage when Arthur Cabral has integrated into the team dynamics, Tengstedt has returned from injury and Marcos Leonardo has not yet been an option in the starting line-up. . .
“My job is not to give players minutes just because they scored goals. Without them we scored six goals against Visele and four against Portimonense. We have no problems scoring goals. All strikers can score and I have no doubt about that, but “For me it is not decisive and the players have to accept that. It is up to them to show that they have the complete package, tactically involved in pressing and also defensively.” and offensive transitions. Playing for Benfica is not enough to score goals,” he warned.
Leader Benfica with 58 points will visit Porto, third with 49, on Sunday starting at 20:30 in the classic 24th round of the Portuguese First League at the Dragao stadium in Porto, where the refereeing will take place. João Pinheiro, representative of the Braga association.
Author: Lusa
Source: CM Jornal
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