Real Madrid must “attack and defend together,” warns Camavinga ahead of Benfica clash | OneFootball

Eduardo Camavinga urged his Real Madrid teammates to “attack and defend together” as they seek a first-leg win against Benfica in the UEFA Champions League play-offs on Tuesday.

The sides met in this competition just three weeks ago, with Anatoliy Trubin’s dramatic late goal seeing los Blancos drop out of the top eight in the league phase as Benfica rose into the play-off places on goal difference.

Speaking in a pre-match press conference, Camavinga admitted that Real Madrid “didn’t play well in Lisbon, but [on Tuesday] we have to produce a great performance for the fans.

“The most important thing is to do things well as a team and not change our routine. We have to play a good match together. We need to change our mentality and attack and defend together,” the Frenchman explained.

The 23-year-old, who signed for Real Madrid from Stade Rennais in 2021, also reflected on his personal performances and career growth ahead of the tie.

“I like playing as a number six, but I know I lack consistency.

“I need to stay more focused on the pitch because sometimes I make mistakes, but I’m aware of that and it’s what I need to improve on at the moment.”

Asked about the criticism he has faced, he quipped: “Whether you do things well or badly, people will criticise. You have to stay focused on your work and I don’t pay attention to the criticism.

“It’s normal in this job and I don’t let it affect me. It doesn’t make me sad – it gives me more strength to keep working.

“I’m very proud of what I’ve done in my life so far, although I want to achieve more. I’m sure my family is very happy, and when I play I do it to make my family happy. I have to continue like this to bring joy to my family and to everyone who watches me play.”

Benfica v Real Madrid gets underway at 20:00 GMT on Tuesday 17 February.