Rui Águas pulls no punches after Benfica v Rio Ave: not aggressive enough | OneFootball

Rui Águas expressed his dissatisfaction with the first half of the Benfica - Rio Ave match, a game that ended in a one-all draw. The legend of Clube da Luz noted that the second half brought improvements for the Eagles, which unfortunately did not yield practical results.

“The first half of this clash with Rio Ave did not live up to the high expectations that had been created. Benfica appeared with the same lineup as against Aves, but was lifeless and not very aggressive in attack, facing a visiting team that was united and well-positioned. The second half showed a more dominant and aggressive team, pushing the opponent back,” analyzes Rui Águas.

“The seemingly decisive difference came with the entry of the wingers, especially the debutant Lukebakio, who was particularly influential in the imbalances he caused and the assist for Sudakov to score. When nothing seemed to predict it, André Luiz's masterpiece emerged and the inglorious ending that led to the draw was repeated,” adds Rui Águas.

“Mourinho mentioned, before this game, that he prefers and is more effective at conveying ideas on the field than through any video or conversation with the players. However, this understandable preference will have to wait, given the dense schedule ahead. Now, mental recovery becomes essential and a priority, because a new confrontation is approaching. The entire team has the final say,” concludes Rui Águas about the game.

Finally, the Benfica legend analyzes the hiring of the Portuguese coach, who had strong words at the end of the match: “Mourinho's arrival excites Benfica fans and makes others fear. The famous expression, now outdated, psychological whip, traditionally used in the replacement of coaches, returns with renewed meaning, marking the arrival of a true master in the art of producing effect.”

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