Benfica’s Antonio Silva remains optimistic despite 0-2 loss to Inter Milan in first leg of Champions League quarter-finals Benfica suffered a 0-2 defeat at the hands of Inter Milan in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-finals at Estádio da Luz. While the Portuguese side failed to score, this does not mean that they are out of the competition quite yet. António Silva, Benfica’s defender, has assured that all players on the team believe that the tie is still open, and they are ready to fight in the second leg. “We started well in the second half, and Inter scored two goals in the same way. We were aware of the full-backs’ runs to the second post… We deserved more, and we had opportunities for that. The fair result was a draw. Now, this is just the first part of the tie,” Silva said in an interview with Eleven. Benfica was hoping to take advantage of playing at home, but the loss does not mean that the team is giving up. Silva remains optimistic heading into the second leg, which will take place at San Siro, Milan. “We will go to Milan the same way we’ve played this season. We will do everything in Milan, and we have to score at least three goals to win and advance. We are very confident in our abilities, and we know we have what it takes to overturn this deficit,” Silva said. Benfica’s optimism is admirable, but it won’t be an easy task to win by a three-goal margin in Milan, especially against a team like Inter, who is known for their defensive strength. However, with the right mindset and determination, anything is possible. Benfica’s manager, Jorge Jesus, echoed Silva’s sentiments in a post-match interview, saying that the team’s focus now is on preparing for the second leg and remaining positive. “We are still alive in the tie. It’s possible to turn it around, even if the odds are against us,” Jesus said. Benfica’s journey to the quarter-finals has been impressive, with the team winning five out of six group stage games and eliminating Real Madrid in the Round of 16. The team has shown resilience throughout the competition, and the players are not ready to give up yet. Silva, who has been a standout player for Benfica this season, will play a key role in the team’s attempts to stage a comeback. The defender has been an important presence at the back, helping Benfica keep a clean sheet in several key matches this season. He will need to be at his best in the second leg to keep Inter’s potent attack at bay. Benfica’s supporters also play a crucial role in motivating the team. Despite not being able to attend home matches due to the ongoing pandemic, the fans have been showing their support from afar. The team will need their backing once again as they head to Milan for the second leg. The second leg of the Champions League quarter-finals between Inter Milan and Benfica will take place on April 19 at San Siro. While the odds may be against them, Benfica is determined to give it their all and fight until the very end. Anything can happen in football, and Benfica is not ready to give up just yet.
