Rui Costa urges Benfica to fight to the last breath after awards speech | OneFootball

Rui Costa used Tuesday’s Cosme Damião Awards to rally Benfica, vowing they will fight to the last breath as the run-in begins. According to Glorioso 1904, the club president addressed supporters and award winners at Pavilhão number two at the Luz.

He voiced growing anger within the professional set-up and denounced what he considers season-shaping injustices. These ranged from the Portuguese Cup being taken from Benfica, to incidents at Arouca and elsewhere, and the punishment handed to José Mourinho, which he called ‘inqualificável’. He demanded respect and a level playing field against direct rivals.

In the league, Benfica are level on points with Sporting, who sit second with one game fewer, and trail leaders Porto by seven. With eight rounds left, winning every match would secure second place and Champions League qualification.

Even after victory at Arouca, Benfica felt aggrieved. Nicolás Otamendi missed the round with physical problems, and captain and centre-back António Silva was booked in a disputed incident, triggering a suspension for an accumulation of cautions. Left-back Samuel Dahl was pushed by the referee in a contentious flashpoint.

José Mourinho has sought to shield the group, stressing unity and pride. Benfica remain the league’s only unbeaten side and, despite the turbulence, the board and coach insist on high standards, targeting a final push to clinch a prestigious finish and set up an even more ambitious next season.

Source: Glorioso 1904