Benfica Estoril Roger Schmidt Preview League

PREVIEW

Roger Schmidt previewed the Benfica-Estoril game, from Matchday 29 of the Liga Bwin, scheduled for Sunday at 6 pm, April 23, at Estádio da Luz.

Estoril are still fighting against relegation in the Liga Bwin, what kind of opponent do you expect tomorrow [Sunday] at Estádio da Luz?

This kind of games are always dangerous. We are in the last stage of the season, Estoril are at risk of relegation and if we analyze their games in the last weeks, we see a team that still believe, that fight and are playing an intense football, especially when defending. We have to be focused and find solutions like we did many times during the season. We have to be well organized in our defensive position to prevent their counter-attacks and transitions. We play home, we have a big goal, we want to be champions and we are looking ahead. We want to play a high-level game and win.

"We have to be focused and find solutions like we did many times during the season. We have to be well organized in our defensive position to prevent their counter-attacks and transitions"

Roger Schmidt

Benfica have six games left to play in the season. After the participation in the Champions League (quarterfinals), the Portuguese Cup and the League Cup, if Benfica become champions, how would you describe the 1^st season at the club?

I already said it at the beginning of the season. I can only evaluate the season when it is over. Until now, the players have been doing very well. We have a new team, many players with different roles, with responsibility, playing football in an international context, where they must fight for titles. And when I see their motivation, their commitment and mindset, I think they are doing a great job so far. But at the end, we need to show that we have the concentration and mentality for the last games, to be champions. If we can do that, it will be a great season.

"We have a new team, many players with different roles, with responsibility, playing football in an international context, where they must fight for titles. And when I see their motivation, their commitment and mindset, I think they are doing a great job so far"

What is your opinion on the League and the Portuguese Football? Is it what you expected? And what about the noise? And the referees?

I am impressed by the Portuguese football quality, by the coaches, it is a tough competition. There are very good teams in the League, just like Sporting, FC Porto, and Braga. They showed it in the league and internationally, they are very good. Each league has its culture, sometimes we play at big stadiums, sometimes at small ones, with less supporters. But I like it, I am very happy with the experience, that is why I have extended my contract. I fell I am at the right place. The noise? The media? Football is a big deal in Portugal, we see it on TV every night and in the newspapers. It is a part of football and I like it.