Otamendi: "Important to start the year winning"

STATEMENTS TO BTV

A goal from João Mário, from the penalty spot at 9', sealed Benfica's 1-0 win over Portimonense, on matchday 15 of the Liga Bwin. "An important win", stressed Otamendi.

Before the match, the tribute that was needed! The number 30 jersey of Roger Schmidt's squad was applauded in the Cathedral, he who became World Champion in Qatar with Argentina's national team.

"It was very important for me and my family. Enzo couldn't be there, but he will also have his tribute because he is also part of what we have achieved as a group, for Argentina. This tribute, in our stadium, with our fans, is something that I will remember for all my life because I achieved a very important title in my career and, obviously, they are also part of it", explained Otamendi.

With a pass success rate of 91% (72/79), 4 duels on the ground won out of 6 and 7 out of 10 aerial duels won, according to data from the Sofascore platform, the captain was instrumental in the victory.

"We played a good game. It was important to start the year winning after a tough defeat. We worked during the week to improve, and I think we just missed more goals. This is the way, and we have to keep playing the same way. We just have to score more goals and defend well", he claimed.