Much praise in the Portuguese media for the way Benfica’s ten held up against PSV in the Champions League play-offs. The role of the outstanding goalkeeper Odysseas Vlachodimos in particular is highlighted the day after reaching the main tournament of the million-dollar ball. Benfica played with ten men for a long time because of the red card for Lucas Veríssimo, but PSV nevertheless failed to demolish the Portuguese wall.
publico is particularly impressed by the fighting spirit displayed by trainer Jorge Jesus’ squad. “The team remained calm after the red card and showed that they have a good dose of character.” The Portuguese daily believes that the placement for the group stage of the Champions League is very important for Benfica’s image. “The club’s prestige will remain intact through the Champions League qualification and the €37.24 million guaranteed cash will make several things a lot easier this season. But to reach the Champions League, Benfica had to suffer quite a bit. And all because of the red card from Lucas Veríssimo.”
The huge amounts that PSV misses from the Champions League
The people of Eindhoven grab next to a considerable amount due to the lack of the billion-dollar ball in the group stage.
Where Veríssimo seemed to get Benfica in trouble, Vlachodimos became the great hero of the visitors from Portugal. “He really solved all of Benfica’s problems.” Also Jornal De Noticias praises the unbeatable goalkeeper from Greece. “PSV really tried everything, but fortunately Benfica had an inspired Greek under the bar. Shortly after Veríssimo’s red card, it all started with his clever save on a bet by Noni Madueke.” Record Benfica’s hard-fought draw at the Philips Stadium feels like a win.
“A draw with the taste of a win”, headlines the Portuguese daily. Expresso zooms in on the heroic role of Vlachodimos in Eindhoven. “The suffering of Vlachodimos is worth millions.” In addition, attention is paid to the fact that Benfica had to keep up with ten players for a long time. “Jorge Jesus had attacking intentions for this match, but the good intentions were soon shelved by the quick red card for Veríssimo, who clearly felt uneasy.” Nevertheless, everything worked out for the resilient Benfica. “Jorge Jesus’ joy after the final whistle showed how much this result means to him.”
Veríssimo, who had been sent away after half an hour, apologized after the game via a post on Instagram for his red card against PSV. “I would like to apologize to the supporters of Benfica and also thank my team-mates for their determination. The place in the Champions League is ours!”, wrote the overjoyed Brazilian central defender.