Benfica -Manager Bruno Lage has shown confidence that his side can pass Barcelona in their round of 16 collision in the Champions League. The Portuguese giants had the Catalan side on the ropes during their meeting in the competition phase and will receive the first stage in Lisbon in the Estadio Da Luz.
Before the game, Low confirmed that Angel Di Maria and Florentino Luis would be missing for the first stage, with both nursing muscle problems. They could be back for the return use, while Gavi traveled with Barcelona, but is doubtful because of illness. Lage move his side in the same way as they were defeated with 5-4 in January.
“The approach is similar, the strategy to follow is the one we think it will be the best for tomorrow. We are confronted with a great team that has scored many goals, but we also focus on the positive things we have done against this opponent: the number of opportunities we had, the number of times we were in front of the goal … We believe that we can get through this draw. “
In that match, Benfica saw twice a lead of two goals, but a late rally from Barcelona resulted in a comeback of a stop time, thanks to a brilliant Raphinha winner. Benfica, however, had their way with the defense of Barcelona and Low supported his side to re -exploit the space behind their high line.
“We have looked at our opponents and we will try to find the spaces they offer us. As much as I would like to talk to you and go more depth on your subject, I can't do that and don't want to do this. Maybe we can talk a little at the end of the game. But we need to know how we can benefit from the spaces that Barcelona will give us. It is a very interesting question, but before we can answer it here, we have to answer it on the field. “
Low believed that the fans in the Da Luz had an entertaining game.
“I can't predict how many goals will be scored in the game, but I can predict a great football game because there are two teams that set their sights on attacks,” he said MD.
Barcelona will be behind Real Sociedad this weekend in a 4-0 win, but last week showed during their 4-4 draw with Atletico Madrid in the Copa del Rey that there are still vulnerabilities in their backline. Hansi Flick will be hopefully that they look much more secure than the decisive phase of the season.
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