Fundamental changes in strategy and performers are expected for Sporting in relation to the defeat in Alvalade; Do you remember where Kokçu played?
It was on February 29th that Benfica lost 1-2 in Alvalade in the first leg of the Portuguese Cup semi-finals. The two games are separated by just 33 days, but a lot of important things have changed in the meantime for the Reds and should influence the way they face the new duel with the Lions on Tuesday, this time in Luz.
Taking into account Roger Schmidt’s most recent choices, the eleven and the strategy must change.
The defense launched initially by the German coach of the Eagles could be the same as in the first game and that is probably what will happen, with Trubin in goal and in front of him a defensive quartet made up of Alexander Bah, António Silva, Otamendi and Aursnes. But in midfield the differences should start — the midfielder duo in Alvalade was formed by João Neves and João Mário, but it is Florentino who has played with Neves and they started together in the last three games, which the team won. Florentino has been a starter for five consecutive games, which corresponds to a cycle of one draw and four wins, preceded by two consecutive defeats (Sporting and FC Porto).
In the first leg, Di María started on the right and Neres on the left, which is not very different from Schmidt’s recent options (although João Mário may now return to the eleven), but the novelty was in the central zone and in attack. Kokçu was number 10 against the Lions and Rafa was the most advanced player in the Reds’ offensive strategy.
Kokçu, against Sporting, played in the position where he believes he performs most and led him to give a controversial interview not authorized by the club to complain about the coach’s choices. The creative Turkish international missed the game against Casa Pia following that interview and started on the bench in the last game, against Chaves. It is unlikely that he will regain his starting position in this match and, as he plays, it will be interesting to see where he is in midfield.
Finally, it is most likely that in the attack Rafa will retreat to the place he usually occupies and Arthur Cabral will this time be the spearhead aimed at Uruguayan Franco Israel’s goal.
Brazilian has 10 goals for the Reds and stands out among the strikers of the last 10 years; has almost 100 goals scored in Europe
After taking a break on Saturday, Benfica’s players returned to training this Sunday.
With the return of Spanish left-back Juan Bernat to the squad after five months injured, there is an indication that only winger Tiago Gouveia (right ankle sprain) is injured. This Sunday, the Portuguese striker showed good signs, but remains in doubt for the meeting with Sporting.
