Lage’s Verdict..Benfica “Should Have Won” Club World Cup Opener Against Boca Juniors
Bruno Lage, Benfica’s head coach, expressed a firm belief that his team
deserved to clinch victory against Boca Juniors in their opening Club World Cup
fixture in Miami, which ultimately ended in a 2-2 draw.
Despite falling behind by two goals and suffering an early red card,
Lage lauded his side’s fighting spirit and their ability to rally, equalize, and create numerous
opportunities to win the match
Speaking to DAZN56, Lage stated, “I feel we should have won the game.
We started well, conceded two goals, but the team showed the capacity to
equalize and created several chances to win”
Frustration with Limited Stoppage Time and Disruptions
The Portuguese tactician voiced his discontent with the mere five minutes
of added time awarded in the second half, arguing it unfairly hampered Benfica’s push
for a winning goal.
Lage noted that the game was “very stopped,” with frequent interruptions
hindering the rhythm and flow of play.
Lage’s Tactical Masterclass..Energy Injection Despite Numerical Disadvantage
Lage elaborated on his starting lineup choices and halftime substitutions,
emphasizing the strategic introduction of players like Kokçu and Aktürkoglu to inject fresh
energy into the squad
Even after Belotti’s early red card left Benfica with ten men,
Lage felt his team maintained control and continued to press their opponents,
aiming to pin Boca Juniors deep in their own half
“We felt that with two strikers we would press Boca more into their area
We were one man down, but the difference was not noticeable,” he added
Resilient Comeback.. Crucial Goals Secure a Hard-Fought Draw
Benfica showcased remarkable resilience to claw their way back from a two-goal deficit,
with Di María and Otamendi netting the equalizers.
Otamendi’s decisive header, stemming from a Kokçu corner,
secured the late draw.
The team displayed unwavering determination, even when shorthanded,
and continued to pursue a victory until the final whistle
.
