With Benfica set to visit Rangers in the second leg of the Europa League’s round-of-16 this week, the Portuguese media is interested in the atmosphere the Eagles will face at Ibrox in their match up against Philippe Clement’s side.
That’s why newspaper A Bola today features an interview with Jair Tavares. The midfielder, who used to play for the Lisbon side, is now at Hibernian, and has a lot to talk about their Scottish rivals.
The 23-year-old made it clear that Benfica will have to face a tough environment at Ibrox, highlighting the support that Rangers get from their fans.
“Benfica will face a frenetic and electrifying atmosphere. I think those are the right words to describe the atmosphere at Ibrox – the Rangers fans are extremely loud and passionate about their club. They don’t shut up for a second, always supporting the team, from start to finish, and sometimes it even feels like they’re on the pitch playing against you,” Jair Tavares told A Bola.
“I expect an extremely difficult game for both sides. After the Luz game, I think either team can progress to the next round, although I can still see Benfica having an advantage, even though it’s not easy to play at Ibrox.”
Tavares was also asked about the Rangers players who can be the biggest threats to Benfica. With Hibs having faced the Ibrox side last weekend, he knows well those who could make a difference.
“The captain, James Tavernier. He’s experienced, physically strong and extremely offensive. He’s excellent at set-pieces. Then there’s John Lundstram, the pendulum in midfield. He’s also very strong physically and controls all the team’s rhythms. Todd Cantwell is a very, very creative midfielder. The ball never cries at his feet, as they say in Portuguese slang.”
Benfica and Rangers battled in a 2-2 draw at the Estádio da Luz last week, in a very disputed match. The Scottish side were even in front on two separate occasions, and we’ll see if they keep that attitude when playing at home on Thursday night.
