Benfica labeled Rangers as “extremely aggressive and committed” following their draw; Clement’s team is not to be taken lightly.
After today’s Europa League draw, the Portuguese media has focused heavily on Benfica vs. Rangers’ round of 16 match. Antonio Simões, a former Eagles player, has expressed his opinion that Philippe Clement’s team is as good an opponent as Liga Portugal Betclic, demonstrating the respect Rangers enjoy in Europe and the fact that Benfica could face a difficult matchup given the Ibrox side’s current winning streak.
Relayed by Record, he said: “In theory, it wasn’t the easiest or the most difficult. The timing of the matches and the calendar will certainly have an influence. We’re up against a team with players who are very aggressive and committed.
“Benfica need to be more aggressive in their thinking, they need to think faster and believe in themselves a lot more.”
According to Simões, both Rangers and Benfica have the potential to go to the quarter-finals, making no clear favorites in the draw.
“Given the football culture of the two countries, it’s best to leave everything open.”
Earlier today, Benfica director Simão Sabrosa emphasized the Eagles’ respect for Rangers, stating that they will need a strong effort to beat the Scottish club.
Benfica and Rangers will play their first round of 16 match at the Estádio da Luz on March 7th, with the decisive encounter taking place at Ibrox on March 14th.
The Portuguese and Scottish clubs had already squared off in the Europa League during the 2020/21 season. They were both in Group D at the time and drew twice, 2-2 in Glasgow and 3-3 in Lisbon.
Read more on https://sportupdates.co.uk/
Leave a Reply