Benfica head coach Bruno Lage responded to journalists’ questions following the match against Chelsea in the Club World Cup. According to him, the Portuguese team fought in the game, but due to the lack of some details, they missed out on progressing to the next stage.
– Benfica has ambitions in every tournament. This time was no exception. We completed the group stage successfully, took first place, and had a worthy opportunity to advance. But unfortunately, in football, anything can happen in 90 minutes, – said Lage.
The coach especially highlighted Chelsea's teamwork and the high level of some players. Speaking about Pedro Neto’s performance, he said:
– I know Pedro Neto well. His individual skill especially shows in one-on-one situations. Stopping him is extremely difficult. He outperforms opponents not just with technique but also with smart decision-making. Our defenders tried, but it wasn’t enough.
Lage admitted that his players were mentally and physically prepared, but the opponent’s intense pressing and pace became the decisive factors.
– We had chances. But in football, heart and accuracy at the right moment are essential. In some moments, we didn’t act fast enough, – he said.
Despite the result, the coach appreciated his team’s efforts and confirmed he would continue trusting them. He also emphasized that in the future, experience in such high-pressure games would be a key factor.
According to Bruno Lage, Benfica will learn from this defeat and aim to make a strong impact in European and global competitions with a more solid lineup. Read 'Zamin' on Telegram!
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