Roger Schmidt: "We will be ready for the official matches"

PRESS CONFERENCE

After the victory (3-2) that resulted in the conquest of the Eusébio Cup, Roger Schmidt, Benfica's coach, analyzed, in a press conference, the exhibition against Newcastle. 

A good last test before the official start

"It was a very difficult match, against a very good and very physical opponent. It was a perfect last test for the season and for the important matches to come. I think we have seen good things, but we also have things to improve and we will talk about that. At this stage of the pre-season we can't be perfect, but I'm happy. I saw many good things, namely in the first half when we had good moments in the offensive transition, in the attack, in the pressure, and in the ability to recover the ball. We created several opportunities. Still, the opponent had some space near our box and ended up scoring two goals.In my opinion, analyzing the whole pre-season, the players were very good, they worked hard and even today [Tuesday] that happened. Now we have a week to rest, train and prepare for the next matches."

More fatigue in the second half

"The players were a bit tired in the second half, that was also my opinion. I expected that and that's why I changed the team. They played the whole pre-season, but now it's over and we have to be fresh and ready for the official matches. For me, it is more important to use training, because I know that throughout the season there are several times when we play every three days."

Important victory to honor the King

"I am happy that we won the Eusébio Cup. He [Eusébio] was a great player, and when we have a cup named after him, we have to do everything to win it, especially at our stadium. It wasn't easy and I'm happy that we scored several goals, won the match and it was a good day for us."

The importance of everyone being ready to play

"We won five matches in the pre-season, it's good for confidence, but it's only the pre-season. Regarding the starting eleven, I think a certain way as a coach. For me, a starting eleven is something that is always in flux, since I'm not going to play 60 matches always with the same players. Of course, several players who were in this starting eleven will also be in a week's time, because they have been doing well, but I am always open to all options, because all players are in good shape.It's good to have all the players well in both physical and tactical terms. I think we will be ready for the start of the official season."

Not conceding is good; winning is better

"In the end, the most important thing is to win. Of course, keeping a clean sheet is good for the defenders and the goalkeeper to have more confidence. But we have to respect the quality of the opponent. Our idea is to keep the ball away from our goal and having the ball is the best way to prevent it, but it's not always possible."

Newcastle was a good preparation for FC Midtjylland

"It's a different opponent, at a different point in the season and in a different competition, but they are two physical teams. Our players did well, they won several duels. I think it was a good preparation for next Tuesday, but we have to adjust our tactics and the way we play to the next opponent. I think we will be ready."