Roger Schmidt, the German coach who led Benfica to its 38th title of Portuguese football champion, thanked the supporters for their support throughout the season, as well as the efforts of the players.
During the press conference after the 3-0 win against Santa Clara, for the 34th and final round of the Portuguese First League, the coach emphasized the merit of winning the “eagles” and the dedication of everyone who worked with him.
“It’s a mixture of great happiness and pride. It’s been a long journey and we needed a lot of effort to reach our goal of becoming champions again. We knew how much the Benfica fans wanted a successful season. It was a great season.” motivation for us and it was an uphill battle. We needed 87 points and went to the final round to become champions. I am very happy for my players and staff, for how much they have worked for this and because they have done everything to become the best team in Portugal,” said Schmidt.
After becoming the first German coach to win a league title in Portugal, he admitted there was “a lot of pressure” to win the match against Santa Clara and praised the players’ “attitude to win”.
“We always played good football, attacking football. The players always tried to entertain the spectators, but with the aim of winning trophies. In the end we got the reward,” said Schmidt, before being interrupted by the players, who ‘burst in’. the hall press conference at Estádio da Luz before the usual sparkling wine bath.
Benfica were crowned Portuguese football champions for the 38th time today after beating Santa Clara 3-0 at home in a match of the 34th and final round of the Portuguese First League.
Needing a win to mathematically secure the title, Benfica scored through Gonçalo Ramos (07 minutes), Rafa (28) and Grimaldo (60), from the penalty spot.
After a three-season ‘drought’, the ‘incarnates’ returned to celebrate a league title and finished the I Liga with 87 points, two more than FC Porto.
Source: DN
