"Focused on getting the win"

PREVIEW

Recognizing that Benfica will face "great players" in the first leg of the Champions League round of 16, Álvaro Carreras expressed his full focus and ambition to beat Barcelona on Wednesday, March 5, at the Estádio da Luz.

What lessons have been learned from the Champions League league phase match at Estádio da Luz that can be applied to tomorrow's game [Wednesday]?

We're completely focused on tomorrow's game. We know it's going to be a beautiful, tougher game. But, above all, we're focused on winning so that we can be ready for the second leg, and prepared to win.

Benfica have now been going out as a three, from the back, from time to time, in a slightly more hybrid system. What do you expect from this link-up with Dahl? Are there any favorites for this tie?

We're completely focused on our role. We know we're going to do a great job to get through. As for the team, the truth is that I'm not the one who decides, I do what I'm asked. But, above all, we're focused on winning and on going to Barcelona to win.

His duel with Lamine Yamal in the previous game with Barcelona was one of the most interesting and beautiful things to watch, and one that deserved to be highlighted. What do you expect from this new clash with the great Barcelona star?

I don't know if he'll play or not, but I'm completely focused on our role, on defending... Yes, I don't know if I'll play either [laughs]... Above all, I'm focused on my role, on defending well so that I can attack. You know I like to attack, but first you have to defend your position.

One day before the game with Barcelona, your name has been linked to the Spanish team. Does that bring extra pressure? As well as winning, do you also want to impress the Spanish club? Looking back at last season, you didn't have as many games as this season. With the arrival of Bruno Lage, have you gained a new lease of life at Benfica?

I work for myself, but above all for the team. I'm completely focused on Benfica, on continuing to have a good season, and on continuing to work. The rest will come.