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Friday, 19 March 2010 15:46 |
"There are no easy or impossible adversaries" - Rui Costa
Benfica-Liverpool draw reaction
 Both Benfica and Liverpool have had time to evaluate their Europa League quarter-final draw and have spoken about how they feel about being pitted against each other.
Rui Costa - Benfica director of football
"At this moment there are no easy or impossible adversaries. Benfica are one of the eight finalists in the Europa League and we respect all of the teams who are in this competition, just like they all respect Benfica."
"We knew that any team we'd be drawn against would be difficult. We were paired with Liverpool and we hope that it's another great tie for us."
Rafa Benitez - Liverpool coach
"We know that they have a good team. We played against them in the Champions League a few years ago. They have a great number of supporters. It will be hard."
"We know that they are playing very well at this time and they are in first place in Portugal. I am familiar with some of their players - Saviola, Aimar and Garcia - so we know they have a lot of quality."
"We have to play well in Lisbon and then resolve it at home. Benfica have already played in our home stadium and because of this, they won't be in awe. We will do things well so that we can advance. It will be a well-balanced tie."
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2.0
If Benfica's performance against Everton was any indication how they might fare against English opposition, I think this is a very favorable draw indeed.
Prediction: Benfica go through 5-3 on aggregate.
First things first we have two big games coming up with Porto this weekend and then the match against Braga which could decide the Liga title prior to the Liverpool game. Liverpool only have Sunderland who are battling to fight off relagation before the match at the Luz. Their players will be better rested, but that being said Os Gloriosos are incredible at the Luz and in JJ we trust. I can hear it now Benfi...ca!....Benfi...ca!.....Benfi...ca! I gotta go, my spikes are calling.
Forca SL e Benfica!