Rui Vitória: "Positive responses in very demanding matches"

The coach of Benfica, Rui Vitória, at the end of the match against Lyon (2-3) analyzed the Reds’ pre-season, that ended with the 10th edition of the Eusébio Cup and International Champions Cup, at the Estádio Algarve.

“The balance of these matches? They were demanding matches, in which we gave positive responses. There are aspects to correct because it is at this stage that they must be corrected. The balance, given the opponents we faced and the preparation which needs to be done, it is frankly positive. This was the last match, we did not win, but we had very good periods and the result, in my opinion, is unfair. Now we must start preparing the first official match. We are focused on it”, he assured.

The Nigerian Tyronne Ebuehi has picked up a serious injury, leaving  André Almeida as the only option on the right side of the defense.

“We will find the solutions that we must find. I am sad because it was a player that was beginning his career at Benfica and in the first training session in Portugal he ends up picking a serious injury”, he said.

Asked to comment the news about the possible transfer of Rúben Dias, the coach of Benfica pointed out to the team.

“My focus is the team. The team had less positive aspects. We allowed Lyon to play on the counter-attack, something that should not have happened. We also had positive aspects, three balls that hit the woodwork… We played against a top-quality opponent, with excellent players. Against Fenerbahçe there will be 11 players on the pitch, plus the three players that will come on, and the 60 thousand supporters in the stands and the ones that will be at home, who also are called up”, he completed.

Text: Marco Rebelo

Pics: Tânia Paulo and João Paulo Trindade / SL Benfica