Champions League: Alvaro Arbeloa wary of José Mourinho's Benfica | OneFootball

Alvaro Arbeloa expressed great caution toward José Mourinho's Benfica

Champions League: Alvaro Arbeloa wary of José Mourinho's Benfica

Real Madrid travel to Lisbon this Tuesday to face Benfica in the Champions League playoffs. It's a crucial fixture for Los Blancos, who need a strong showing in the competition to avoid a humiliating setback. Following their loss to Benfica last January, Arbeloa is on high alert regarding the Portuguese side.

"I know exactly what they're capable of. I've said it here before: even if they lined up with their youth team, the intensity would be sky-high. Tomorrow... expect the same scenario. They're capable of playing even better, and we need to be ready for that. Everyone has to be aware of what's at stake. (...) Our only thought is to win. Our goal isn't just to knock out Benfica, but to win the Champions League. Getting past this round isn't about revenge; it's about achieving our goal. Clearly, one team has more individual talent. But their mentality will be very much the same as it was three weeks ago. They have a leader who sets the tone, dictating their style and fighting spirit. From there, there are a few minor differences. But this will be a highly competitive and formidable team. And we have to be ready.", said the Portuguese coach.