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| Tuesday, 22 November 2011 23:19 |
United 2-2 Benfica: match reactionLuisao out of Derby de Lisboa The press conferences following Manchester United and Benfica’s 2-2 draw at Old Trafford saw both Sir Alex Ferguson and Jorge Jesus in succinct moods, with the latter the happier of the two, though his satisfaction was tempered by news that captain Luisao will miss Saturday’s Lisbon derby.
Jesus was first out, and although his voice bore the effects of a stressful 90 minutes, the Benfica coach had the air of a satisfied man. Describing himself as “proud of my players”, Jesus reflected on what has ultimately turned out to be a successful group stage campaign in this season’s Champions League. “The main objective was to qualify” When confronted with the conclusion that Benfica will almost certainly top Group C (with just a home meeting against point-less Otelul Galati to come), Jesus allowed himself a smile, but declared that “the main objective was qualification. We knew that we would be competing with Manchester United for first place, but the main objective was to qualify.” Sir Alex Ferguson also echoed these sentiments, seemingly unconcerned at the prospect of being drawn against the likes of Barcelona, Bayern Munich or Real Madrid in the round of sixteen. His reasoning was that to win the Champions League, that calibre of opposition must be faced at some point. Jesus appeared to be of a similar mind, stating that the prospect of facing Europe’s finest “does not worry me.” He also praised the “fantastic atmosphere”, and Benfica’s opponents in what was a gripping contest “between two great sides.” Losing Luisao The tone took something of a downward turn when Benfica captain Luisao was brought up. The central defender disappeared down the tunnel after an awkward landing in the 55th minute, and although the club’s medical department are “still uncertain” as to the nature of his injury, Jesus did clarify to the assembled press that he was not expecting Luisao to be available for Saturday’s Derby de Lisboa. All eyes will now turn to Ezequiel Garay (who was, a rash challenge on Nani aside, the picture of poise and precision at Old Trafford)’s partner for what is arguably the most important game of Benfica’s season so far. With a stuttering Porto facing a tricky-looking home date with Braga, the Eagles will be sensing an opportunity to move clear at the top of the Liga ZON Sagres. Miguel Vitor, who replaced Luisao for the last 35 minutes on Tuesday, is the leading candidate to do so once again at the Luz, despite drawing the ire of some for outspoken comments earlier in the season about a perceived lack of opportunities. He looks set to receive one now. For a full report of tonight's match, click here. Ben Shave |
By far this is the most excited I've been for a Benfica v. Sporting match since both teams are looking strong. Here's hoping for a strong win and to continue this great home vs. Sporting. They have not beat Benfica at the Luz for over 6 years.
I was watching some of the replay on TV last night and all you could hear throughout the game were the various Benfica chants. Well done by our boys that went to the UK.
I too have thought that Maxi hasn't been as good this season, but frankly we don't have anyone else. Amorin is more of a backup.
Keep in mind that Maxi will mix the game vs Otelul due to todays yellow.
People forget Emerson has never been in this situation. Every game is a must win and full pressure. All things concerned, he hasn't been that bad. We were just used to Coentrao.
I'm glad Vitor showed well and held his nerve. Not an easy spot to come in at. Let's hope he can hold the fort down while our Captain recovers. Let me add, if he plays well he'll be the perfect replacement for Garay. I think a team will come calling for him in the summer.
Very nice job by JJ in this one.
The only question I have is what has happened with Nolito? Did a backing of Capedevilla put him in the dog house? Training poorly? Big head? Granted the play of others has had to contribute to him sitting.
I can't wait for the "True" Classico. The anxious moments never end. I am happy a fresh Cardozo will be ready to go.
Eu Sou Benfica, Eu Sou Campeao.
On a side note, let's hope Porto gets it together in their match. It will far from easy. Never mind the cold and travel.
Emerson can also be a huge liability and I fear that Carrillo will be hard to stop. Sporting will likely play a 4-2-3-1 with Schaars and Santos as the holding midfielders. Schaars is a solid midfielder and Santos has the potential to be on of Europe's best midfielders, but neither of them are great defensively.
If Benfica can take control of the midfield, we'll be able to beat Sporting.