Dynamo v Benfica: line-ups, where to watch, form guide
Tuesday, October 18, 2016
Article summary
"I have faith in my team – I see their desire," said Serhiy Rebrov, backing Dynamo Kyiv to shake off disappointing results as they welcome Benfica – "the best team in Portugal".
Article top media content
Article body
- Rebrov backs Dynamo to shake off poor form: "I see their desire"
- Dynamo have won just two of last eight fixtures in all competitions
- Both teams have solitary point apiece after first two matches
- Rui Vitória says this game will not necessarily be decisive, though
- The Eagles have won their last 15 Liga away fixtures
Possible line-ups
Dynamo Kyiv: Rudko; Morozyuk, Khacheridi, Vida, Antunes; Rybalka; Yarmolenko, Sydorchuk, Fedorchuk, González; Júnior Moraes.
Out: Garmash (knee)
Doubtful: Tsygankov (hamstring)
Misses next match if booked: Garmash
Benfica: Ederson; Semedo, Jardel, Lindelöf, Grimaldo; Fesja, Pizzi, Salvio, Cervi; Guedes, Mitroglou.
Out: André Almeida (leg), Andre Horta (thigh), Rafa (thigh), Jonas (foot)
Where to watch
Fans can find their local UEFA Champions League broadcast partner(s) here
Serhiy Rebrov, Dynamo coach
Benfica are the best team in Portugal, so we know how difficult our task is. We have to be at our absolute best to stand up to such opponents. We were disappointed with our last league result [see below], but now our players are even more motivated.
They want to prove that was just a slip-up. I have faith in my team – I see their desire. We have dropped some important points [in the Ukrainian Premier League and the UEFA Champions League] but nothing is lost yet. We have to move forward and do our best in every game.
Rui Vitória, Benfica coach
Dynamo have a stable squad and Serhiy Rebrov has worked with these players for several years. We must take this game very seriously but I can't say it's a decider for us. Of course, every game is very important because we want to win to make our position in the group better.
I have not spoken to Paulo Fonseca [the Portuguese coach of Dynamo's rivals Shakhtar] about Dynamo but I have watched both teams in action this season with some pleasure. It was really good football.
Weekend results
Chornomorets Odesa 1-1 Dynamo Kyiv (Khacheridi og 90+4; Júnior Moraes 30)
Dynamo were set to claim just their third victory in their last eight games until Yevhen Khacheridi's last-gasp own goal.
1° Dezembro 1-2 Benfica (Águas 61; Danilo 49, Luisão 90+6)
Danilo scored on his debut and Luisão struck for the first time since last season's UEFA Champions League matchday four as Benfica reached the fourth round of the Portuguese Cup.
Form guide (all competitions, most recent first)
Dynamo Kyiv: DWDWLL
Benfica: WWLWWD
Reporter's view: Bogdan Buga (@UEFAcomBogdanB)
Dynamo are eager to record their first UEFA Champions League win of the campaign and forget about their current domestic travails. Rebrov is under great pressure and, on paper at least, Benfica look stronger. However, Dynamo's desire to get back on track should not be underestimated – and they have hope as long as Andriy Yarmolenko performs to the level he has in recent weeks.
Did you know?
What was the score the last time Benfica visited Dynamo Kyiv, in 1991? Find out more in our extensive match background.