Flu symptoms rule Daniel Banjaqui out as Benfica edge Alverca 2-1 | OneFootball

Daniel Banjaqui was a late withdrawal for Benfica’s 2-1 win over Alverca, with flu symptoms ruling the number 56 out of the matchday squad and forcing José Mourinho to improvise.

Record writes that Banjaqui had been set to start after José Mourinho confirmed Amar Dedić would not play, with his workload being managed due to his heavily taxed physical condition.

Banjaqui started the previous match against Tondela and, midweek, featured for the junior side that knocked out Slavia Prague in the UEFA Youth League. That tie was played in a severe storm, which may explain the player’s symptoms.

In his absence, Mourinho deployed Sidny Cabral on the right of defence, using the Cape Verdean’s versatility.

Benfica were made to work against the Ribatejo side, but strikes from Andreas Schjelderup and Anísio Cabral secured the points.

This season Banjaqui, valued at 1 million euros, has played 19 competitive matches for Benfica, eight in Liga Portugal Meu Super, three in the UEFA Youth League, three in Liga Revelação, two in Liga Portugal Betclic and one in the Taça de Portugal. Across 1,139 minutes, the full-back has one goal and one assist.

Source: Glorioso 1904