Benfica made history in Turkey
Bruno Lage commanded the team for the first victory on Turkish soil. After eight encounters in Turkey, Benfica secured their first win after an unlikely bet by the Eagles coach.
It is a case to say that Bruno Lage is winning the hearts of the Benfica fans. The incarnated side faced Galatasaray in the heat of Valentine’s Day and Turkey brought a triumph, which in addition to being passionate, was also historic (2-1). After eight games, this was Benfica’s first win in Turkey. And let me tell you, in an important moment.
Luyindama scored the Galatasaray goal as Salvio and Seferovic scored both goals of Luz’s formation, which brings them to the second leg of the 16-finals to be held in Lisbon on the 21st, a precious advantage.
Much has been said about Bruno Lage’s risky bet. The coach stressed that launching several youngsters was “option” and “strategy”, and felt that it would be the best bet for this game, also taking into account the effort management of the squad. Bruno Lage trusted and … he did well.
Ferro, Rúben Dias, Yuri Ribeiro, Gedson, Florentino, João Félix. These young people were headlines and have one thing in common: All were formed in Seixal. And this leads us to a pertinent question, such was the youth that made their presence in the starting eleven of Benfica. Do you know what the average age of the initial eleven was in front of Galatasaray? 22.9 years.
A team so young that even surprised the opponent, as Fernando, midfielder of the Turkish team, said at the end of the game.
