António Silva: "Continue to give everything, with the help of the fans"

PREVIEW

Recognizing the quality of Club Brugge, but with maximum confidence in Benfica's attitude and determination, António Silva previewed the match from the 2nd leg of the Champions League round of 16, which will start at 8 pm this Tuesday, March 7, at Estádio da Luz. 

Do you expect Club Brugge to be more goal-seeking and offensive, or more defensive?

No doubt that, being two goals behind, they will have to take more risks, but we have our idea, we want to control the game and win it. We expect a very difficult match, against a team with a lot of quality, that has fast players up front, and has a proven their value in European football. Above all, we want to play a good game, nullify Brugge's strengths, and advance to the next stage [quarterfinals] of the competition.

From your perspective, what is the explanation for Benfica's successful season?

I can't speak about previous seasons, because I wasn't here, but what I feel is a different mentality. Of course the victories help a lot, the team is confident, and the players give everything for the crest. The most important thing is to keep going like this, with the help of the fans. We are counting on the Benfiquistas, they are our 12th man. Even on Monday nights, they can fill the stadium or provide good attendance. They are always surprising us.

How does it feel to play and train alongside a World Champion [Otamendi]?

I am privileged to be able to share the pitch with him [Otamendi]. In these matches, it has been me playing with him, but without a doubt the other central defenders in the squad and the whole team are privileged. He is a player who has a huge amount of experience in world football, and I am making the most of the fact that I can share the pitch with him.

Benfica has one of the most impressive Academies in European football. The numbers show that, and so do the players. In your opinion, what is the secret?

Above all, it's the project that comes from Youth ranks to the B team, going through the Under-23, to the First team. It's a well-defined project, with people of great quality in training, coaches and all the staff that helps us at the Benfica Campus. Of course, the investment by the President and the coaches of the first team, who have always bet on players from Benfica's academy, is also important.