Benfica gem impressed Marco Silva, could start again against Casa Pia | OneFootball

Benfica’s trip to Hearts ended up giving Marco Silva more than just qualification for the Europa League play-off. With a comfortable advantage, the coach took the chance to field less-used players, and some of those selections ended up showing they have something to offer for the upcoming matches.

Among the main standouts was José Neto, a young left-back who was given an opportunity at Tynecastle Park and made a very positive impression. Although he still showed some weaknesses defensively, the player was very willing to support the attack and built a good understanding with Andreas Schjelderup, while also reading Gianluca Prestianni’s movements well after the Argentine came on.

José Neto’s influence was particularly clear in the move that led to Benfica’s only goal on Scottish soil. The full-back moved into central areas and, with his back to goal, managed to set up Dodi Lukebakio for the precise finish.

Marco Silva did not hide his satisfaction with what he saw and offered clear praise for the player: "We felt it was the right time for him to start. He’s a very intelligent player, not only on the pitch but off it as well. He understands well what we want and, naturally, he still has to grow and he will grow. It is better for him to grow while competing than, at times, not competing," said the coach.

The Benfica manager went even further in the confidence he showed in the young full-back. "Whenever we can and feel it is the right moment to give him an opportunity, we will have to do so. He had a good pre-season. He is a player in whom we, at Benfica, have a lot of belief, and he can become a very important player."

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