From absent leader to mind games: João Tralhão on Real v Benfica | OneFootball

João Tralhão played the role of José Mourinho and previewed the match against Real Madrid. In the press conference, where he commented on the possible atmosphere at Santiago Bernabéu, the Portuguese coach sought to clarify all doubts before the match. Check out everything said by the Benfica assistant coach.

Will José Mourinho be at the Bernabéu tomorrow?

"I don't know where he will be. We prepared this game anticipating all scenarios. It's a game with a different character, Mourinho would like to be on the bench, but he isn't due to a situation you are aware of. We prepared all scenarios so that tomorrow we are at our best".

Is Aursnes ready for 90 minutes? Is the team at full strength?

"We came at full strength to compete in a final. Everyone on the field will be at 10".

Was it planned for Prestianni to play tomorrow?

"On that topic, I think the introduction was clear. Regardless of the player, we have a clear identity since we arrived. We have proven throughout the games that we maintain the same profile. We want to maintain our identity, which can dominate in a scenario that is not easy. We will maintain our identity".

Could Mourinho be giving the conference? How was the decision process?

"You have to ask Mourinho. How did we prepare? We are a staff, we do everything together. Tomorrow we guarantee we will be prepared".

What does Benfica lose without Mourinho?

"We lose our leader who would like to be in the technical area. Due to a situation that was not fair. What don't we lose? What he said in the past, the leader is always missed, but he already said that when one player is missing, another will be there and the other will give their best. He is with us, we know what we have to do. All directives will be guaranteed by us".

How do you feel about leading Benfica at the Bernabéu? Why did Prestianni come?

"It's not a personal matter, the one who will lead the team is the same as before. I am here to be an extension and help with my competence. The feeling is the same. UEFA has made a decision, the club has appealed. We have to prepare for all scenarios".

What does Benfica expect from the referee?

"Benfica expects it to be a fair game and that they respect the equality of criteria that we felt was different at Luz. I think it was evident. There are players who shouldn't be on the field tomorrow. He is a great referee, who respects the giant that is Real Madrid and the giant that is Benfica".

Ríos came on in the 70th minute. How important is he? Can he be a starter?

"He is a very important player, he is a player who has a capacity that adds to us. I can't answer you, but being with us, he could be an option that will add value".

How did the disadvantage impact the preparation?

"We looked at this game as if it were two halves. It's 1-0 to Real Madrid. We have 90 plus whatever comes to play. The plan is clear. I can't say much more, we hope the coach is surprised by our plan because that's our goal".

Possible provocations

"For Benfica, it's a final but for Real Madrid too. Just as we will enter with our strategy, they will try to take advantage of playing at home. We are prepared, we anticipated that scenario. We are prepared for any scenario. They won't be able to escape their profile. We know they have some weaknesses and we are prepared to exploit them".

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