"Thank the whole team and our fantastic fans"

SUDAKOV'S GOAL

AFS-Benfica, from Matchday 6 of the Liga Betclic, will remain in Sudakov's memory. In the 45th minute, the Ukrainian international persisted and scored his first goal with the Sacred Mantle. The 23-year-old midfielder was also voted Man of the Match in the Eagles' 0-3 win.

Speaking to Sport TV at the Estádio do Clube Desportivo das Aves, Sudakov described the moment as "wonderful" and said he was "very happy" with his "first goal and first victory" for the club.

"I want to thank the whole team and our fantastic fans for their spectacular support after a bad result. We took this support after the game and evolved together. We have to grow in the Championship, with the new coach, who is much appreciated. I also want to thank coach Bruno Lage. We didn't work together for long, but he was important. We can grow with the new coach, José Mourinho. Everyone knows him. I can only thank all the players and the fans", he said on the evening of Saturday, September 20.

The Ukrainian international also explained his goal celebration, which was dedicated to his family: "My daughter was born three days ago. A kiss and love to her, my family, and my wife."

Asked about how it feels to be under the technical command of José Mourinho, Sudakov said it was "a childhood dream."

"I couldn't believe it, but it's true. Of course, I want to grow with him every day, work hard. I think we can do something special, like José Mourinho [laughs]", he said.