Norton de Matos reassures Benfica after Real Madrid setback | OneFootball

Overall, regarding the tie against Real Madrid, Luís Norton de Matos gives a positive assessment. In this Exclusive Glorioso 1904, the former coach of Benfica's B team spoke with our Journal, where he not only discussed the two legs played against the merengues but also mentioned the impact of José Mourinho's absence at the Bernabéu. Additionally, he set out what should be the goal for the eagles for the rest of the championship and highlighted the current importance of some Benfica players.

"Benfica, both at Luz and in Madrid, started the game very well. And when you assess the two legs, I think Benfica ended up having more goal opportunities than Real Madrid. In essence, I think José Mourinho prepared the two games very well and that Benfica left a good impression of play and organization. There is no moral defeat", he began by saying, in conversation with Glorioso 1904.

Speaking about the absence of the Special One in the second leg, Luís Norton de Matos did not hide its impact: "It is evident that the coach is always missed on the bench. Mourinho's character and charisma are extremely important. However, this game was entirely prepared by him, at least the whole tactical part. But, obviously, the fact that he was not present with the players may have had some influence, especially knowing that one of his strengths is exactly his communication with them", reinforced the former coach of Benfica's B team, to Glorioso 1904.

Regarding the League, Luís Norton de Matos argues that Benfica - which sees Prestianni in trouble again - has an obligation. "Now the mission is to give the maximum to achieve what they have been doing in the championship, where they have not yet lost, which is to accumulate points. Sporting, which is the closest opponent, will have to deal with a burden caused by the Champions League round of 16, and, that said, Benfica has to try to take advantage of that. They have this obligation and will certainly do so", emphasized the 72-year-old coach, exclusively to our Journal.

In conclusion, Glorioso 1904 asked the former coach of Benfica's B team about the recent impact of the youth academy on the main team. Giving special mention to three Benfica gems: "Both Banjaqui and José Neto, who started games and played almost until the end, gave an excellent impression, and this is very important for a player coming from the youth academy. Anísio, for the little he played, but for the two goals he scored, was very important, and in that sense, I think the three are currently at a level that can be solidified for the rest of the championship".

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