Vítor Paneira: “Benfica has a very strong team, with quality and talent”

 He is one of the unquestionable names of Benfica's History!

We refer to Vítor Paneira! Born in 1966, on February 16^th, in Vila Nova de Famalicão, he arrived at Benfica in the late 80's (1988/89), remaining in the club until 1995/96.

“A pre-season is just a pre-season, but there are always consequences for a team with the Benfica's dimension. Factually, in terms of results, it was not so well", he said.

“But Benfica is never weak, it just can be less strong! Eventually in a sector, on the defense, because the club lost important players in the last years, but I believe that, until August 31^st, the team will be stable. Nevertheless, Benfica has a strong team, with quality and talent", explained Paneira.

Leaving the pre-season behind, it is time to look forward... for the Super Cup against V. Guimarães and for the launching of Liga Nos, against SC Braga...

“These are two matches with different characteristics. The first one is the first trophy of the season, the Super Cup against V. Guimarães. It is a team with great quality. It's going to be hard. Vitória de Guimarães has a specyfic way of playing and tremendous supporters. It will be a disputed Final, that's what I believe in", he analyzed.

After the Super Cup, comes SC Braga, for the first match of Liga NOS...

“In relation to Braga, for the Championship, it is a team which has initiated earlier its preparation, because of the Europa League, and that gives them some advantage. But, playing at home, with its supporters, Benfica will have to start stronger, focused on the season’s target. Benfica is favorite to win the three points", he concluded.

Text: Sónia Antunes and João André Silva

Pics: SL Benfica