Benfica's Disappointing First Half: Ricardo Horta Acknowledges Deserved Defeat
A Season of High Expectations and a Disappointing Start
Coming into the 2023/24 season, Sport Lisboa e Benfica was widely regarded as one of the favorites to challenge for the Primeira Liga title. The team had made several high-profile signings during the summer transfer window, including Ricardo Horta from Braga. However, Benfica's first half of the season has been disappointing, as they currently sit in fifth place in the league table, 12 points behind leaders Porto.
Mixed Form and Costly Mistakes
Benfica has won only nine of their 17 league games this season, losing five and drawing three. The team has often played well in patches, but they have been let down by costly mistakes at crucial moments. For example, in their recent defeat to Porto, Benfica conceded a goal from a poor back pass.
Ricardo Horta's Blunt Assessment
Speaking after the defeat to Porto, Ricardo Horta admitted that Benfica deserved to lose. "We weren't good enough today," he said. "We made too many mistakes, and we were punished for them. We need to improve quickly if we want to achieve our goals this season."
Underlying Issues and Lack of Cohesion
There are several factors that have contributed to Benfica's disappointing first half of the season. One issue has been the lack of cohesion within the team. Several new players have been added to the squad, and it has taken time for them to gel. This has been evident in Benfica's performances, which have often been disjointed and lacking in fluidity.
Key Departures and Tactical Shifts
Benfica also lost some key players during the summer transfer window, including Darwin Núñez and Enzo Fernández. These players were important members of the team, and their absence has been felt. Additionally, manager Roger Schmidt has made some tactical changes this season, which have not always worked out as planned.
Pressure and Leadership Concerns
The pressure on Benfica to win the league title is immense. The club has not won the Primeira Liga since 2019, and the fans are desperate for success. This pressure can affect the players' performances, and it may also be a factor in the lack of leadership within the team.
Turning Things Around in the Second Half
Despite their disappointing first half of the season, Benfica still has time to turn things around. The team has a talented squad, and they have shown in the past that they are capable of great things. Schmidt will need to find a way to get the best out of his players, and he will also need to address the underlying issues that have hindered the team's progress this season.
Improvements in Cohesion and Confidence
One of the key areas that Benfica needs to improve in is cohesion. The players need to develop a better understanding of each other's roles and responsibilities. They also need to develop a stronger sense of belief in themselves and in their ability to win.
Finding the Right System and Utilizing Squad Depth
Schmidt also needs to find the right system for his team. He has experimented with several different formations this season, but he has not yet found one that consistently brings the best out of his players. Additionally, Schmidt needs to make better use of his squad depth. Benfica has a number of talented players who are capable of making a difference. Schmidt needs to find a way to integrate these players into the team and get them firing on all cylinders.
Conclusion: Addressing Issues, Embracing Challenges
Benfica's first half of the season has been disappointing, but the team still has time to turn things around. Schmidt needs to address the underlying issues that have hindered the team's progress this season, such as the lack of cohesion and the lack of leadership. He also needs to find the right system for his team and make better use of his squad depth. If Benfica can do these things, they have the potential to be a force to be reckoned with in the second half of the season.
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