"Seize every moment to improve"

STATEMENTS

Continuing to grow is a value cherished by Leandro Santos, a player from Benfica's professional football team. On the second day of preparation for the 2025 Club World Cup in the United States, the defender focused his attention on the first match of the competition, against Boca Juniors.

Made in Benfica Campus athlete Leandro Santos, before training at Waters Sportsplex, highlighted the “great work” that the Club is doing in youth football, reflected by the presence of 15 members of the group (out of 20 players) currently under Bruno Lage's command in Tampa, Florida.a.

What does it mean to play in this Club World Cup for Benfica?

It feels good. It's great for me to be here. For me, who's from the youth team, and for the other youth players too. It's a great opportunity, and it's just a matter of enjoying it.

Is it a great opportunity, even because of the time you can play more in your position, as a right back?

Yes, that too. It's about seizing every moment you have to grow and improve, which is the most important thing right now.

How do you view these conditions [thunderstorm] that are delaying training? Is this something new for you?

Yes, we're not used to that there, so it is something new, yes.

How are the players doing?

We're fine, we're working well, every day. We've been working here inside, and we're waiting for confirmation to go outside [for training].

Are you ready to be a starter in a competition of this magnitude? Especially with Tomás Araújo out...

That's not the focus. The focus is on being ready, working toward it, and seizing the opportunity when it arises.

Do you feel that this could be your moment to shine?

I prefer not to think about it too much. I prefer to think about day-to-day life, about the work I can do to be ready for opportunities.

This is the first time Benfica will officially play against Boca Juniors. Do you also feel that this is a historic moment for world football and for Benfica in particular?

Yes, it's going to be a great game, for sure, and we're going to enjoy it.

How do you view this match against Argentina? The national team is world champion, has a lot of technical quality, and outstanding players. How do you analyze this match? What are their strengths? Where do you think you can overcome them?

Of course, we know they are a great team with a lot of quality. We are also working hard to win the game.

There are several players from the youth academy here today. What does this sign mean to you and your teammates?

It means that Benfica is doing a good job, developing players. We are all very happy to be here. Benfica is doing a great job.

How far do you think Benfica can go in this competition?

Our focus is on beating Boca Juniors. It's the first game, so we'll take it step by step.