César Peixoto confident for the clash between Gil Vicente and Benfica.

César Peixoto, the astute manager of Gil Vicente, is determined to take on the giant Benfica with a powerful combination of humility and self-confidence. In the lead-up to the exciting clash of the 24th round of the Primeira Liga, which will take place at the Estádio Cidade de Barcelos, Peixoto expressed his unwavering belief that his team can assert their playing style and secure the much-desired three points.

“We will approach this game as we do all others. With our identity, with our way of playing, with our humility, but at the same time, with our arrogance on the ball,” Peixoto declared, highlighting the ambition that drives the group. The coach stated that the team must remain true to their competitive DNA, regardless of the opponent in front of them. “I believe we will impose our football, play on equal terms, no matter who it is against. I have great faith in what we are doing and the path we are on,” he added, showcasing his confidence in the players and the playing philosophy they have cultivated.

Following a bitter defeat against Estoril in the previous round, where Gil Vicente lost 3-1, Peixoto assured that the team’s confidence remains intact. He admitted that the loss exposed moments of disorganization, which he does not wish to see repeated in the upcoming match. “After a defeat, the start of the week is never easy, but we had time to manage it,” he stated, emphasizing the need for solid organization. “What concerned me was not just the defeat, but the gap between the second and third goals, during which we became a bit disorganized,” he explained.

Concentration will be vital for Gil Vicente, who will face a “highly demanding” opponent in Benfica. Peixoto stressed the importance of the mental aspect, which he considers crucial to sustain the strategy throughout a game that will require the utmost from everyone. “We need to be strong for 90 minutes, as it will be a game that demands a lot from us, whether mentally, tactically, defensively, or offensively,” he warned.

When asked about the media attention surrounding the match and discussions about officiating, Peixoto was firm. He highlighted that the focus should be on Gil Vicente and the work they have been doing. “The only question in the press conference with mister José Mourinho that was about Gil Vicente came from BTV and no one else. Therefore, I will talk about Gil Vicente and not about Benfica,” he asserted, calling for more respect for the work of his team, which currently occupies fifth place in the table with 40 points, compared to Benfica’s 55 points in third place.

Peixoto also updated the status of the players, confirming that Joelson Fernandes is fit for the match after leaving the last game with physical complaints. However, Gustavo Varela will not be able to compete, as he is on loan from Benfica, and the injuries to Mutombo and Bamba, along with the uncertainty surrounding Tidjany Touré until the day of the match, will be factors to consider.

With the ball rolling at 20:15 on Monday, all eyes will be on this clash between Gil Vicente and Benfica, a showdown that promises to be electrifying and full of emotions. The spectacle is guaranteed, and the anticipation is palpable!