Bruno Lage’s starting duo doubtful for Benfica v Santa Clara | OneFootball

Nicolás Otamendi and Richard Ríos are doubtful for Benfica – Santa Clara. This was revealed by Bruno Lage, who, in the pre-match press conference, stated that he will only know whether he can count on the pair of starters for the Eagles on the morning of Friday, September 12, that is, just hours before the match.

“Tomorrow morning we will assess the players who arrived yesterday [Wednesday], there are many players who are only on their third day of preparation,” said Bruno Lage, when asked about the possible presence of Nicolás Otamendi and Richard Ríos in the Benfica – Santa Clara match, part of the fifth round of the Liga Portugal Betclic.

The Argentine international – who made some statements that sparked controversy in Portugal – was sent off in the 31st minute of the match against Ecuador and will, by all accounts, be fresher than the midfielder. Meanwhile, Richard Ríos, playing for Colombia, completed the full 90 minutes and accumulated more fatigue.

“Santa Clara is a very organized team. Last year we faced them three times; they know what they have and like to do with the ball. We know how they defend and that they like to press. It will be a very demanding game for us. We have to play at the highest level,” concluded Bruno Lage, warning of the difficulties Benfica will face.

The Benfica – Santa Clara match is scheduled for September 12 at 8:15 p.m. at Estádio da Luz, and is part of the fifth round of Liga Portugal Betclic. Bruno Lage’s team is currently in fourth place in the National Championship, with nine points from three matches. Porto is first (12 points from four matches), Famalicão second (10 points from four games), and Sporting third (nine points from four matches).

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇵🇹 here.