“There is no Rafa moment, there is the Benfica moment”

Rafa and Diogo Gonçalves were on Tuesday afternoon in the Huawei store, at Centro Comercial Colombo, in Lisbon, where they gave an autograph session, an important moment to promote and intensify the proximity with the supporters.

The Benfiquista Family knows it and as the decisions are approaching their support is more and more crucial.

“These initiatives are also important for us because here we are able to grasp the support of the fans and how much they care for us. And we also send the message that we count on them to achieve our goals”, said Rafa to the Press.

Is this Rafa's moment at Benfica?

“No, there is no Rafa moment, there is the Benfica moment. My teammates and I are worried about reaching the goal, which is to become champions and win the fifth consecutive league title”, he said.

“Yes, it is always better to be playing, but honestly, I am not worried if I play or not, that is a coach’s option. I'm focused on helping Benfica in its goals”, he revealed after being confronted with the fact that he is currently having more played minutes.

And with respect to the National Team and the possible presence in the Russia World Cup?

“I aim to finish the Championship as champion, what comes after that is always good”, said the attacking midfielder, adding next: “I feel well, as a felt in the first half of the season. I feel ready to help the team and that is all I am thinking about”.

Switching to the trip to Estádio Capital do Móvel, Rafa expects another tough round, but the motto is the same as always. Against Paços de Ferreira, in Gameweek 24 of  Liga NOS, is a must-win match!

“It will be a difficult match, but we are preparing the game well to arrive there and get the win. We don't worry about the other team, we are only focused on ours. All championships are difficult, the previous also was and we did it”, predicted the number 27 jersey of the team led by Rui Vitória.

To finish, the inevitable question: you still believe in the fifth league title in a row?

And the answer could not be more firm and convincing.: “Yes, without a doubt.”

Paços de Ferreira and SL Benfica will face at 8:30 pm on Saturday.

Text: Sónia Antunes and João Sanches

Pics: João Paulo Trindade / SL Benfica