Real Madrid arrives in Lisbon on a high after a convincing 4-1 victory over Real Sociedad in the Spanish league, ending the opponent’s 11-match unbeaten streak. The team secured three consecutive wins under the leadership of coach Arbeloa.
This comes two weeks after Arbeloa assumed the coaching position, following a surprising 4-2 defeat to Benfica at home in the previous league round. That loss was costly, as Benfica, leading 3-2, looked set to be eliminated. Anatoliy Trubin scored a header from a free kick in the eighth minute of stoppage time, leading Mourinho’s team to the playoff round on away goals, while Real Madrid failed to qualify directly for the Round of 16.
Arbeloa stated during Monday’s press conference that “to win, we need to play excellently. To achieve that, we must master several aspects. We need to defend and attack well, focus on set pieces, and play a complete match for all 90 minutes.”
The former Real Madrid defender praised his players for their rapid improvement since taking over from Chapi Alonso. He added, “Since my arrival, I have sensed a very positive spirit from all players, which was a fundamental factor. In football, it is much easier to be a coach than a player, as saying what needs to be done is easier than executing what is said.”
He continued, “The greatest credit for this success goes to the players and their diligent efforts and work. Good results come from our players who prepare for every match as if it were a final. With this mentality and this high level, good results are achieved. However, we are confident in our ability to achieve more.”
Arbeloa also expects Benfica to perform similarly, led by their coach and former Real Madrid mentor, Mourinho. He noted, “There is one clear thing: Benfica’s spirit will be very similar to what it was three weeks ago. They have a leader (Mourinho) who defines the playing style and competition.”
He clarified that “from this point on, there are some fine details. But the competition will be extremely fierce, and we must be prepared. For us, it is a new match, and we do not think about anything else. It is a new match… and we want to present a good performance. We have no other goal but to win.”
