Following today’s Europa League draw, the round of 16 clash between Benfica and Rangers is receiving a lot of attention from the Portuguese media.
The latest analysis was made by former Eagles player Antonio Simões, who considers Philippe Clement’s side to be an opponent at the same level as the Liga Portugal Betclic side.
This shows the respect Rangers receive on the European scene, and with the Ibrox side currently on a great run of form, he knows Benfica could be in for a tough ride.
Relayed by Record, he said: “In theory, it wasn’t the easiest or the most difficult. The timing of the matches and the calendar will certainly have an influence. We’re up against a team with players who are very aggressive and committed.
“Benfica need to be more aggressive in their thinking, they need to think faster and believe in themselves a lot more.”
Simões also claimed there are no favourites in this draw, as both Rangers and Benfica have what it takes to get through to the quarter-finals.
“Given the football culture of the two countries, it’s best to leave everything open.”
Earlier today, we had also seen Benfica director Simão Sabrosa highlighting the respect that the Eagles have for Rangers, claiming the Portuguese side will need a top performance to get past the Scottish club.
Benfica and Rangers will be playing the round of 16’s first clash at the Estádio da Luz on the 7th of March, and the decisive game will take place at Ibrox on the 14th.
The Portuguese and Scottish clubs had already faced each other in the Europa League in the 2020/21 season. They were both part of Group D at the time, and ended up having a couple of draws, with a 2-2 score in Glasgow and a thrilling 3-3 in Lisbon.
