Joao Palhinhamidfielder of Bayern Munichspoke at a press conference on the eve of the match against Benfica, a very delicate match given that the Bavarians have lost the last two Champions League matches: “Tomorrow will be like a final. We want to win, we’re playing at home and it’s important for us. We know that they are in good form, but we will try to get the 3 points.”
You are a former Sporting CP, what do you think of Benfica?
“I watched some matches, as a Portuguese I happen to do so. They have many good individuals, they have improved with the change of coach and they are having a good moment, but we are focused on ourselves and we want to win.”
Amorim will become manager of Manchester United. Do you have something to say to him?
“I wish him all the best. It’s a big step for him and he deserves it. As a former teammate and friend, I wish him all the best and much success.”
How is it with Kompany?
“I try to stop counterattacks and give the team the right balance. For me it is an advantage to play with a style that involves pressing of this type. There are risks, but we have improved. Against Aston Villa we dominated a lot of the of the match. Against Barcelona it was 50 percent us and 50 percent them. We were in control even when we lost points against Eintracht and Leverkusen. When you lose, people talk about tactical things. But only because we lost against Aston Villa and Barcelona doesn’t mean everything is bad.”
His record against Benfica is very positive.
“I think so. I won my last match against Benfica. I’m focused on tomorrow’s match. I have a lot of friends there, but obviously the friendship will remain on hold until after the match.”
How much pressure is there at Bayern?
“When you play for such a big club, the pressure comes automatically. We fight in every game, we want to win every game, that’s why Bayern is such a big club. I’m in the right place and I’m proud to be here. We will fight to win more titles possible”.