Ball – clenched teeth for Anfield (Benfica)

Liverpool’s 1-3 loss in a draw is nothing more than a dream for Benfica, but nonetheless, a dream that can come true. At least that’s what the incarnate players believed and it was that determination and enthusiasm – they assured us at Luz – that this second stage of the Champions League quarter-final was ready, which takes place tomorrow, in England. The team has training scheduled this morning, still in Seixal – with coach, Nélson Veríssimo, previewing the match after lunch – and traveling to Liverpool in the afternoon, carrying plenty of illusions in their baggage.

There is an awareness of the quality of this formidable rival led by German coach Jurgen Klopp. There is also a pragmatism for the difficulties that resulted from the 1-3 first leg match at Luz, but there is also a good feeling in the Eagles’ entourage. This state of mind, which arose above all among the players, is largely the result of the good second half that Benfica played in the Estadio da Luz match a week ago. Although Liverpool scored the final 3-1 after the break, the truth is that Benfica managed to create danger in the second half of the match, and they were on the verge of equalizing and leaving some balance in the air. An idea that Benfica is now clinging to, trying to give shape to the dream that will take place on the pitch at Anfield.

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