Salvio says Benfica belong with the best
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
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Eduardo Salvio said SL Benfica have a "final ahead" after victory against Celtic FC set up a thrilling matchday six trip to FC Barcelona with qualification in the balance.
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The relentless rain in Lisbon was not enough to wash away SL Benfica's UEFA Champions League hopes, with their win against Celtic FC meaning the fate of both sides will be decided on matchday six. Eduardo Salvio believes the Portuguese club showed they "belong in the Champions League", with team-mate André Almeida emphasising the Eagles believe they can win at FC Barcelona in their final fixture to secure a place in the round of 16. Joe Ledley took heart from the fact that the visitors "have come so far" and believes qualification is still possible with a match against FC Spartak Moskva to come.
Eduardo Salvio, Benfica midfielder
I felt great out there. Above everything I am very happy about the game, and about the victory. We showed that we are on the right road, and that we belong in the Champions League. Now we have a final ahead of us. We are going to Barcelona to fight for qualification. It will be difficult out there, but we will be doing everything we can to continue in the competition. [On hitting the crossbar] It was a bit of a shame not to score, but the team's win was the most important thing.
André Almeida, Benfica defender
Of course we believe it is possible [to win in Barcelona]. Celtic beat them and we go into every game looking to win. I have worked every day to deserve an opportunity and it is up to the coach to say whether I am ready to play or not. This is a great team and I am coming to learn from everyone. It is a privilege to be part of this great squad and this fantastic club.
Joe Ledley, Celtic midfielder
[The second Benfica goal] was just a couple of seconds of switching off and we didn't get to the second ball, but we defended brilliantly again. We have this one game left and we'll see what happens. It's going to be very difficult but we do have the advantage that we're at home, in front of our own crowd. We've come so far and we just have to give it one more try. [Barcelona] have a fantastic squad no matter what players they put out [against Benfica], but we have to concentrate on what we do and get three points against Spartak.
