There are only a few hours left before Barcelona’s clash against Benfica begins at the Estadio da Luz, and you can expect a thriller to ensue.
The Catalans have not beaten them in their last two games in Europe and will seek to correct the results. Benfica, meanwhile, hope to pick up three critical points in their quest for a top-eight spot.
Hansi Flick and company will not be able to count on Dani Olmo that night, as the midfielder suffered a slight muscle problem. However, they will be determined to win and return to their good form after the setback against Getafe.
The Benfica legend speaks
Speaking to the media ahead of today’s big European clash, Benfica legend Paulo Madeira gave his two cents on Barcelona, their young talent and their chances at the Estadio de Luz.
He began by praising Hansi Flick’s team for their quality and talent all over the pitch.
“I’m following them. The results they have obtained lately, beating Madrid with those numbers are not achieved every day. Against a Real Madrid with players from another planet.”
He then spoke about the young talent that is emerging in Catalonia and highly praised Lamine Yamal.
“Barcelona has young people with a lot of potential. Lamine for me in the coming years will be the Ballon d’Or, for sure. It has a quality far above normal.”
The legend was then asked what Barcelona’s biggest threats would be against Benfica, to which he responded:
“Barça has its weapons, especially from the center of the field and above. Players who can decide in a second.”
He then singled out Barcelona captain Raphinha as a decisive player who could take the match by the scruff of the neck.
“Raphinha, for example, is a guy who has incredible speed. “Great player.”
Finally, he revealed what he thought would happen tonight in Portugal, both from an atmospheric point of view and from a prediction point of view.
“I think it will be a great game, really. Due to the conditions, with the rain that is falling, the game may be faster than normal.”
“As they beat us in 1991 2-1 at the Camp Nou, I think we will get it back this time. 2-1 for Benfica” he concluded.
Source: SPORT