"Have an offensive mindset"

Recognizing Bayern Munich's quality, in statements to the media in the mixed zone, Aursnes assured that the Eagles' mentality is to try to beat the Bavarian team, their opponent on matchday 3 of Group C of the Club World Cup.

What are your expectations for this game against Bayern Munich?

It will be a difficult game. We played them earlier in the season in the Champions League, and it was a tough game. Tomorrow [Tuesday], we expect the same. We have been working well throughout this competition. The coach has been encouraging us. I think we need to be more aggressive, and the coach has been encouraging us in that regard. I think the first game [against Boca Juniors] showed that. We need to work on that aspect. I hope we can show that tomorrow as well.

A draw is enough for Benfica to qualify for the next round. Is it tempting to play for a draw?

Our mindset will be to try to win the game, and we'll see how it goes. Our mindset will always be to try to win the game.

What can Benfica do differently compared to the Champions League game to finally beat Bayern?

I think we need to try to be a little more offensive with the ball. I think we played defensively [in the last game against Bayern], and we were practically unable to create opportunities. We have to remain compact, as we were. We defended very well, and they didn't create many opportunities, but I think we need to improve our offensive play in relation to that game.

Are you learning Portuguese? Can you understand us?

Yes, a little. I'm learning slowly. I can understand a little.

You know Orkun Kökcü very well. You played with him at Feyenoord. Did you give him any advice after this controversy? Did you talk to him?

Yes, I spoke with him. There is no problem. All the players have a very good relationship with him, and the atmosphere in the group is very good. There is no problem whatsoever.

Tomorrow [Tuesday], at game time, it is expected to be 40 degrees, very hot. How do you think this might influence the pace of the game? As a player, how do you feel about playing in such temperatures?

It's very demanding. The first few days here were very demanding. We have to adapt. The game is a little different when it's so hot, and also with the humidity. We need to be smart with the ball, when we defend, when we attack, and when we have to keep the ball. These are important aspects that we have to think about during the game, for sure.

How can they hurt Bayern?

As I said earlier, I think we need to be compact defensively, as we were in the Champions League game, but we have to try to play our game, try to be offensive, try to create opportunities and have an offensive mindset, but they are a very strong team, and we have to be careful.

Comparing the current situation, who is doing better at this point compared to when they played in the Champions League? Benfica or Bayern?

It's a difficult question, I haven't studied Bayern that much [smiles]. I think maybe the difference between the teams is a bit the same, but it's football and anything can happen. That's the beauty of the game.