The Year In Review 2012 Part Deux

Summer 2012

By the summer of 2012, SLB were looking to make some moves to improve their squad for the upcoming 2012/13 season. Although, the previous season was not a total failure with SLB winning the Taça da Liga and a decent Quarter-Finals appearance in the UEFA Champions League, it was yet another year in which SLB finished second place behind FC Porto. With Presidential elections coming up in the fall, SLB President Luis Filipe Viera and company wanted to please the masses. So SLB signed winger Eduardo Toto Salvio from Atletico Madrid for an approximate 13 million €. Shortly after Salvio's arrival to Lisbon, SLB also signed 20 year old Liberian born FC Twente winger Ola John for approximately 9 million €. With more wingers came more strikers as SC Braga's Lima also joined SLB on the very last day of the summer transfer window signing a 4 year deal.

 

We also saw in the summer transfer window two very important key players depart SLB Axel Witsel (Approximately 40 Million to Zenit) and Javi Garcia. Witsel had only been on SLB for one year (was on a 5 year contract with 40 million buy-out clause) and there was talks of him going to Real Madrid. Garcia who had been on SLB for 3 seasons signed to Manchester City for over 15 million pounds. As devastating as it was to have both key midfielders leave, it was 60 million € that are coming towards SLB way. As critics and fans persecuted the team for these decisions he team still has to go forward. Change is inevitable.

At this point fans did not understand the logic at the SLB camp and that was to spend money that they did not have on wingers that they did not need due to a deep squad of wingers and forwards. As one online Pod caster put it "Benfica is like a skinny girl who is stacked in the front but flat in the back." This was a common topic on the SLB blogs and why was Benfica not signing a much needed left back.

Adapted Roles

And then came the adaptation process that JJ oh so cleverly created in his mind. SLB did not have a proper left-back and now that Emerson and Capdevila had left SLB there were players like Luisinho, Lionel Carole and a young Luis Martins who could fill in that role but did not fall into JJ's plans. JJ took ex- Pacos De Ferreira striker Lorenzo Melgarejo who scored 10 goals last season and decided to make him SLB new adapted LB. Although, we all frowned upon this idea it looks as though Melgarejo has been working out just fine as this year's LB. I must admit he did look shaky against Braga on the season opener but no one could of possibly been worse off playing as a left-back position then Emerson. So when you have the worse possible person playing in that role you have no choice but to take a chance on somebody else. Hell I would of made Mika into a LB. It is fair to say that Melga is SLB LB for the year.I highly doubt SLB will acquire a new LB in the January transfer window. Although I would love to see Coentrão not only come back but take a pay cut to play for his boyhood team. Highly doubtful.

Who can forget Enzo Pérez in the pre-season he scored 2 goals in the Eusebio cup defeating a not so strong Real Madrid (That pussy Ronaldo was scared to enter the Luz). On week 2 he contributed 1 goal to the 5-0 win against Vitoria Setubal. Although he is a midfielder, Enzo can play the wing but with Salvio, Gaitan, John, and Nolito playing on the wing how do you utilize Enzo. Aimar has not played much this season and although Aimar is a 10 ( attacking midfielder / playmaker)  I feel Enzo is more of a 8 (Central midfielder) but not a 6 (tall defender) ideally he is a 7 (attacking mid/winger) but this season JJ has played him as a 10 during Aimar's absence.

Elections

2012 was a year in which Benfica entered in elections. To date Benfica has had a total of 33 Presidents and since the elections are determined by the paying members of the club (socios) it is common to have an election when necessary. Luis Filipe Viera has been President since Halloween 2003. He recalimed his position on December 7, 2012 after defeating a weak opposition of Rui Rangel. Although LFV won, there are many who do not like him and feel that he does not represent the club well. The fact is that he has done a lot more for this club then his previous predisetors. He introduced Benfica TV which has been a success. No longer can SLB be ashamed of their youth system because with the recent success of players like Miguel Vitor, Luis Martins, Leandro Pimenta and Miguel Rosa, SLB fans don't have to say "Sporting has a great youth system." After winning the Presidential elections, LFV told the SLB supporters that he has a surprise for us in the new year. I wonder what he means? I'm hoping it's for SLB to become the 2012/13 Champions of Portugal.

2012/13 Season Thusfar 

 

 

 Benfica will enter 2013 as the first place team in the Liga Zon Sagres. With 12 games played the team is undefeated with 10 wins, 2 draws 24 goals and a total of 32 points. Benfica tied their first game of the season against Braga 2-2 (Porto, and Sporting tied their matches on match day 1) They also managed to win the Lisbon derby in Alvalade 3-1 a day in which would be remembered by Benfica fans as the day that Cardozo scored a hat-trick and surpassing the 100 goal mark in his career at Benfica. Cardozo is currently the top goal scorer in the Liga with 12 goals.

Although they have one game at hand, FC Porto (without Hulk) will be no walk in the park. James Rodriguez and Jackson Martinez have been on a tear this season and on week 14 Benfica will host FC Porto at Luz. I agree with the idea that this year's title will be decided from both of these games at the Luz and at the Dragão. Both teams do not want to give up points that easily and let's not forget last season in which Benfica began giving up points in the new year due to fatigue and a dreadful month of February. (see previous blog)

I will throw this out there, as a fan I feel that this has been a successful season thusfar. Although Benfica failed to get out of the group stages of the UEFA Champions League, they are still the best team in Portugal and have Taça da Liga and Taça de Portugal to compete for. Although, SLB won the Taça de Liga last year, the Taça de Portugal is still an important trophy that must not be ignored. This is a cup that they have not won since the 2003/04 season (2-1 against Porto :)

In regards to being in the UEFA Europa Cup or Europa League (whatever it is called) it is still a competition that they should try to shine a light on. Go in with no expectations, play some un-utilized players (or give the B squad a chance) and hope for the best.

Notebale Mentions

 

The Benfica B team who plays in the Liga Da Honra has had an exceptional year. They are currently in fourth place and although the B teams cannot be promoted to first division in Portugal, there are some great talents on this team.

Players like André Almeida, Andre Gomes, Luis Martins, Sidnei have all played games for the main squad. Many can argue that SLB B captain Miguel Rosa is ready for a chance to play on the A team. He has proven himself to be a worthy player throughout the season with 10 goals this season alone and notable "Player of the week" awards in the Liga and will be a great addition to the A team once his opportunity comes.

19 year old winger Ivan Cavaleiro has 8 goals with the B team and has 5 goals with the Portugal U20 team. Also look out for 18 year old defender João Cancelo although still young he may very well likely take over the spot of Maxi in the distant future.

2013?

 

With the upcoming January transfer window lurking upon us, there is no doubt that changes will be made at SLB. I covered a few tranfer rumours a while back (See the "Should I stay or Should I go?" blog) most recently we have heard the following:

Ezequiel Garay to Manchester United?

Bruno Cesar to Marseille?

There are so many rumours on a daily basis that one can't keep up. Change is inevitable especially if big money is being offered for these players. For Benfica to continue to have a succesful campaign they cannot get rid of Garay without a back-up plan. He is such a valuable player and plays so well alongside Luisão. It does not surprise me that Manchester United would fancy such a player.

In terms of the rumours of players arriving to Benfica, most of them are from South America and to be honest I don't follow these leagues nor do I know who Ricardo Centurion, or Luis Farina are but

in the past we have seen many South American players arrive in Portugal on the cheap and be sold for greater amounts of profits. This is a theme in which we have witnessed teams in Portugal do in the past. It is what pays the bills. For example; Angel Di Maria was sold 3 times over to Real Madrid what the inicial price was. However, let's also remember such players as Jara, Shaffer, and Sepsi who did not work out.

 

The Final Word

 

SLB cannot afford to lose a third consecutive season to FC Porto. Winning the league will not be good enough for the expectations of the fans. (especially on a year in which LFV was re-elected President) For this team to continue to have a succesful season they must not only give the fans a league title but either a league cup or Portugal cup. A decent run in the Europa League is not a must but would be a bonus. If Benfica fail to reach these goals we can very well see a new coach by next season.

On A Personal Note  

I would like to thank all of the following people over 2012:

- All of my followers on Twitter
- Anyone who has read my blog
- Anyone who gives me the time of day to talk Benfica
- Talking To Da Doll (anytime, and thank you)
- Eat More Bacalhau
- Carrie
- Stephonay
- Nelson
- Kinder Surprise
- Steve
- Pedro
- Roxthestache
- Portugoal.net
- PlanetBenfica.co.uk
- My wife (Thanks)
- Anyone that I forgot (Im sorry)

Happy 2013 to all and ...

 

The Year In Review Part 1 11/12 season

When SLB started the second half of the 11/12 season in January 2012 they were still undefeated in the Liga Zon Sagres and although in second place, they were confident that they would surpass FC Porto in the league standings. There was a belief from SLB fans that eventually "A Liga é nossa." Cardozo was scoring goals. New additions to the team such as centre back Ezequiel Garay, midfielder Axel Witsel and newly appointed goal keeper Artur were making a difference at the helm. So where did it all go wrong in the 11/12 season? What were SLB biggest highs and lows throughout 2012? and what does 2013 hold for SLB?


Beginning of The Year

The year started off on January 3 with an away win to Vitoria Guimaraes 4-1 in a Taça Da Liga group stage game. SLB overcame Santa Clara, Maritimo to advance through the group stage of the Taça. Defeated FC Porto 3-2 at home in the semi - finals ( one of the few games we saw Eduardo at net) and then winning the Taça in Coimbra 2-1 over Gil Vicente ( Rodrigo 31' Saviola 83') this would be one of SLB greatest moments of this year. SLB 's fourth Taça Da Liga.

SLB entered 2012 in second place with 12 games into the season and 33 points. They were undefeated with a 9 win - 0 loses - 3 draws ( Gil Vicente, Porto, Braga) The following results were SLB's highpoint fo the season:

Matchday 13 vs. Rio Ave 5-1.
Matchday 14 vs. Leiria. 4-0 
Matchday 15 vs. Vitória 4-1 
Matchday 16 vs. Gil Vicente 3-1
Matchday 17 vs. Feirense 2-1
Matchday 18 vs. Nacional 4-1

Where did it all go wrong?

SLB woes of the season began on February 15 when the team flew out to Russia and played Zenit St.Petersburg in leg 1 of the round of 16 part of the UEFA Champions League. They lost 3-2 and although the team would reach the Quarter - Final stages of the tournament, players were exhausted and for the rest of the season they struggled in the league.

On February 20 Matchday 19 saw SLB concede their first loss in the league losing 1-0 to Vitoria Guimaraes on the road. (Matchday 4, I witnessed SLB defeat Vitoria Guimaraes 2-1 at Luz which was my very first game with my wife to be :-)

Matchday 20 was a scoreless result to Academica. I remember hearing this game on the "relato" and realizing that this was a game that they could of won. Garcia did not play, Jardel was playing in the back instead of Luisao and although Maxi played he was not 100%. The team was burned out and this was due to JJ's inability to rotate the squad which led to his biggest default as the coach.

On Matchday 21 SLB hosted The Classico vs FC Porto at Luz. Although Porto were leading in the standings at this point there was still hope that SLB can catch up and gain momentum. Both teams dressed their best 11 although players like Garay had just returned from international duties and Aimar was not 100%, SLB best players were on the pitch that day.  Pedro Proenca was the referee and like almost all Classico matches controversy was evident. Emerson was given his second yellow on the 63' and by the 64th minute Porto had taken a 2-1 lead with a goal from ex SLB player Christian Rodriguez. 87 minutes Maicon made it 3-1. This was the last time we would see Hulk at the Luz wearing a Porto jersey.

Another big downfall of the season was losing at home to Porto which pretty much decided the league to Porto.

The controversy was not over yet. On Matchday 23, SLB gave up more point to Olhanese drawing 0-0 in a game in which Aimar received an undeserved straight red. And then my least favorite moment of the year was losing to Chelsea in the Quarter Finals of the UEFA champions league. 1-0 at home and then 2-1 away. Any football critic who saw both games noticed that Benfica played a much more attractive game in that series then Chelsea. There are moments in which a fan will always remember and for me it was John Terry's handball in which the biased English commentators (and yes I am calling you out ex- Manchester United star Gary Neville) and the refs oversaw which clearly robbed SLB of regaining any momentum throughout this game. The irony was that ex Porto player Meireles scored in the 94 minute making it 2-1. More irony,Chelsea made it to the Champions League final and defeated Bayern Munich in Germany with a b squad team. I'm not saying SLB would of won the Champions League but what if they went through and faced Barcelona in the semi's? If an undeserving team like Chelsea managed to of defeated Messi and co. with a "Parking the bus" strategy then why couldn't SLB? Then a B-squad Chelsea team wins the title to a German home side Bayern Munich. WTF!

Personal Heartbreak Of The Year Benfica vs Chelsea Quarter- Finals matches

If losing to Porto was bad who can forget Matchday 26: The Lisbon Derby against Sporting  (Please visit my blog a few weeks prior as I described the importance of this derby) Both teams produced 12 yellow cards and one red card was issued to Javi Garcia in the 90th minute. Although Sporting this season is terrible, last season they were still a threat to SLB. Sporting scored a PK in the 18th minute and it remained 1-0 throughout a ruthless derby match.

Benfica ended the 11/12 season in second place with 69 points and just 6 points behind FC Porto. Benfica had a decent performance throughout the UEFA Champions League and won the Taça da Liga.

Many began to question SLB coach JJ and his tactics. For example:

SLB brought in Joan Capdevila an ex- Spain world cup team member and yet Emerson was SLB primary left back throughout the year? (Almost every game Benfica would allow one goal, it was always a strong opposition going past a weak left sided defense. Look at the highlights from the Porto games.)

With a deep enough squad why wasn't the squad being rotated? especially during a year in which SLB had Champions League, The Portuguese League and Cup Games to worry about.

 

 In part 2, I will discuss the following:

What was in store for Benfica through the summer 2012 transfer window?

JJ job security?

Presidential Elections and the first half of the 2012/13 season + January 2013 rumours.

Where's Garay?

"Should I Stay, Or Should I Go?"

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

"If I go there will be trouble, and if I stay there will be double."

 

Name: Oscar Cardozo

Age: 29

Position: Striker

Purchase Value: Approximately 9.200.000 €

Market Value: Approximately 17.500.000 €

Contract Expires: 2014

The reality: Benfica's rumour King has to be Oscar Cardozo. "Tacuara" arrived at the helm in 2007. He has scored over 100 goals for Benfica (including a hat-trick at this past Monday's Lisbon Derby, and another hat trick against Maritimo) and will go down as one of Benfica's best players ever. Whether you like him or hate him the reality is that Cardozo does his job well as a striker and that is score goals."Tacuara" is often perceived as slow, and is criticized for not coming back and helping out the midfield. What he may lack in speed he makes up for goals.

Exit Price: If Cardozo keeps scoring goals the way he has been I can't see SLB letting him go cheap. He is the most valuable striker (maybe player) in Liga Zon Sagres and IMO he will not go for less then 30.000.000 €.If he does not leave this year, then he will retire at SLB.I can't see him leaving Portugal especially to go play in countries like Ukraine or Russian where it's cold and he does not speak the language. However, with teams like Everton, and Liverpool wanting to re-build and try to get that important Champions League spot in England, I can see him playing a vital role on either side.

 

Who Takes His Spot? With Lima and Rodrigo also on the tear, Benfica can afford to get rid of Cardozo because they are not lacking strikers. Although Benfica is dependent on Cardozo to score, and he has a great UEFA track record of 10 goals in 24 appearances this season alone, after 5 years with a club it's time to bring back Nelson Oliveira and carry the team forward. Alan Kardec, and Hugo Viera can fill in if they decide to return from their loans.

Name: Nicolás Gaitán

Age: 24

Position: Winger/ Attacking Midfielder

Purchase Value: Approximately 8.400.000 €

Market Value: Approximately 16.000.000 €

Contract Expires: 2016

The reality:It was last summer in which we started hearing rumours that Gaitán had caught the eye of Manchester United and that the scouts from Old Trafford were in the stands watching Gaitán.

According to the stats Gaitán has scored 10 goals in 54 appearances and besides Manchester United, Russian side Anzhi has expressed interest in Gaitán. Although there were rumours that United were ready to pay 20 million pounds for him, Anzhi at one point were rumoured to offer slb 30 million euros.Gaitán never left last summer when at the time his departure was guaranteed. Gaitán came to SLB as a replacement for Angel di Maria. Although Gaitán was named "Breakthrough player" in the 2010/11 season and has been compared to the likes of Juan Roman Riquelme he is not consistent.It's doubtful to see Gaitán going to Manchester United and becoming a top player in the EPL. He has not done much for SLB this season. He thought that he was going to be sold to a big club for big money and this got to his head which has affected his performance at SLB.If he is sold it will be to a Russian team. However, with his style of play i can see him playing in the Serie A.

Exit Price: If SLB get 15-20 million for him it would smart to sell him.

Who Takes The Spot: Benfica is stacked with wingers. Mostly Salvio and John are in the starting 11 however, if Gaitán does leave, perhaps Urreta can get another change at the club?

 

Name: Nélson Oliveira

Age: 21

Position: Striker

Purchase Value: Approximately ?

Market Value: Approximately 6.000.000 €

Contract Expires: 2017

The Reality: Oliveira has also been linked to Manchester United. Oliveira is also rumoured to have Manchester City and Chelsea looking at the young 21 year old striker. Although Oliveira has not scored a ton of goals at a club level in his early career, he showed promise when he represented the Portugal in Euro 2012. In total he has scored a total of 27 goals in all Portugal youth competitions (U16, U17, U19, U20, U21) and is a Portuguese born striker, a rare commodity for not only Benfica but for Portugal as well.

Exit Price: Benfica should hold onto Oliveira and he should not be on loan to Deportivo De La Corunha, he should be at Benfica making up the Portuguese players that are lacking on the squad. I don't know if I would start him every game but he would have a more dominant role at Benfica then coming off of th bench at Deportivo.(January return?) LFV and JJ should come up with a development plan for Oliveira and coach him to be the next big forthcoming out of Benfica. Nuno Gomes, Rui Costa, that type of status. Hold onto him as long as you can but if big money comes I would sell him for no less then 30 million. Chances are Benfica may just sell him to one of the Manchester's come January for 20-25 million.

Who Takes His Spot? See Cardozo

Name: Ola John

Age: 20

Position: Left Winger/ Striker

Purchase Value: Approximately 9.000.000 €

Market Value: Approximately 9.000.000 €

Contract Expires: 2017

The Reality: John just arrived at Benfica in the summer and it took him a few months to get exposure but after an impressive performance throughout the group stages of the UEFA Champions League, John has begun to turn some heads not just in Portugal but also at Old Trafford. It would make more sense for United to go after John then Gaitan. John is younger and although he lacks experience he will eventually go onto major success with any team and will be represent Holland well on the world's stage.

Exit Price: I can't see Benfica giving him up already. Benfica will hold onto him for another year or so and then sell him for 25-30 million. John also has a 45 million buy out clause so I highly doubt at such an early stage in his career that Man U would pay enormous money for this kid. However, Kagawa and Nani have both been injured as of late so anything is possible.

 

Who Takes His Place: See Nolito

 

Name: Nolito 

Age: 26

Position: Left Winger

Purchase Value: ?

Market Value: Approximately 9.500.000 €

Contract Expires: ?

The Reality: Nolito has been linked to many English teams as of late such as; Liverpool, West Ham, Arsenal. This goes without question since the winger possesses a quick speed as he once belonged to the Barcelona B camp. Around the time Garcia and Witsel SLB, it seemed as though Nolito was on his way out and back to Spain but that never occurred. With the recent success of Ola John, Nolito has been a bench warmer or coming off the bench with few minutes played throughout each game. He did look impressive during the Barcelona Champions League group stages matches.

Exit Price: Between 12 - 15.000.000 €

Who Takes The Spot: No question Ola John can easily become the starting Left Winger at SLB. You also have Bruno Cesar (if he does not leave) an "adapted" winger. Speaking of an "adapted" player Melgarejo could become a forward winger and there is also Luisinho, and Luis Martins. Also, Yannick Djalo (if he comes back, not my personal number one choice)

 

 

Name: Miguel Vitor

Age: 23

Position: Centre Back Defender

Purchase Value: Approximately ?

Market Value: Approximately 1.500.000 €

Contract Expires: 2013

The Reality: Vitor has been on the team since 2007. He has not been given enough minutes on the pitch. Many feel that during the absence of Luisão that Vitor should of been filing in the position and not Jardel. Vitor is a Portuguese player which is always needed on SLB. Him and Roderick and Faria need more game time to develop. With his contract expiring in the summer, I can't see him renewing.

Exit Price: I Can't see him for going more then 1.5-2M due to his lack of playing time. Vitor has experience in England where he played one season with Leicester City where he often started.

Who Takes The Spot:If he goes there is still Jardel, Faria, Roderick, Sidnei that can fill in as back up centre backs to Luisão and Garay. Again it's one less Portuguese player on the team.

 

Name: Pablo Aimar

Age: 33

Position: Attacking Midfielder

Purchase Value: Approximately 6.500.000 €

Market Value: Approximately 6.000.000 €

Contract Expires: 2013

The Reality: Aimar is at the point of his career in which he is beginning to slow down. The Argentine superstar is injury prone and has played very little minutes this season. When Aimar is healthy he does make a difference on the pitch 60 minutes or so at a time. Sir Alex Ferguson expressed on several occasions that he would dream of having Aimar on Manchester United. At his age, this is unlikely. Aimar has expressed interest that he would like to end his career in the team that made him River Plate in Argentina.

Exit Price: Market Value

Who Takes His Spot: Carlos Martins (also injury prone), Enzo Pérez has done a decent job this season. André Gomes is up and coming and plays very well in the mid. Benfica may need to seek a new number 10 to compete for longevity in the UEFA competitions.

 

Name: Rodrigo
Age: 21
Position: Striker - Centre Forward
Purchase Value: Approximately 6.000.000 €
Market Value: Approximately 10.000.000 €
Contract Expires: 2019

The Reality: With Cardozo and Lima starting most games, Rodrigo's role at SLB lately has been very limited with him coming off the bench. He has been a lethal force on the Spain U-21 team and coming from Real Madrid B team and a loan experience at Bolton, Rodrigo has gained much exposure in such little time.

Exit Price: An English side transfer is a possibility but I can't see Benfica letting him go on the cheap. A generous offer will be necessary.

Who Takes His Spot: Lima and Cardozo (if he stays). Oliveira may have more of a role on SLB if Rodrigo leaves.

 

Lisbon Derby Alvalade 2012/13

In many countries the term local derby, or simply just derby means a sporting fixture between two teams from the same town or city.

On Monday December 10, 2012 Estádio José Alvalade will host the first of two Lisbon derby matches throughout the 2012/13 Liga Zon Sagres season between Sporting Clube de Portugal (SCP) and Sport Lisboa e Benfica (SLB). Currently, SLB is in second place in the league with 10 games in at 26 points (Porto has 29 points but they just played their 11th game) and their green neighbours from down the street are tied in 8th place with 3 other teams for eight place. This is a better improvement for Sporting who were second dead last in the league for a good straight month or so.

In Portugal there is no greater derby then the Lisbon derby. Due to their recent success ,one can argue that "The Derby of Minho" between Vitória de Guimarães and Sporting Clube de Braga may be relevant, however not as popular. We can even say that there is a new derby in Portugal O Clássico or as some call it North vs. South between SLB and FC Porto. Those teams just hate each other there is no battle of local demographics there.

Both SLB and SCP cannot write each other's team history without mentioning the other team. In terms of players who can forget João Vieira Pinto who played 8 years for SLB and then in 2000, left to join the rival team SCP. That is quite alright because we stole the greatest Portuguese player of all time from them 40 years prior. In 1960 18 year old Eusébio left his local team in Moçambique Sporting Clube de Lourenço Marques (a feeder team for Sporting Lisbon) to play for Benfica. Eusébio would not only become the greatest player for Benfica and Portugal but one of the greatest in the world. This is something that the Sporting fans to this day dread is knowing that Eusébio was somewhat theirs and was stolen by their Lisbon rivals.

According to Wikipedia, The history of this derby extends back to 1907. At the time Sporting represented the wealthier society from Lisbon while Benfica fans represented the working class. Eight Benfica players switched to the Sporting side in search of better working conditions. The derby is also known as Derby Eterno, Derby da Segunda Circular or Derby da Capital.

I am of the personal belief that both teams should have dressed as many Portuguese players as possible. (That should be a general rule in Portugal itself but we will save that for another time) Think about it would Lorenzo Melarejo care as much about the derby as let's say Carlos Martins? (ex- Sporting player) But then you look at Benfica's captain Luisão who has probably played in this derby at least 20 times since his arrival in 2003. He knows it's a big deal and will wear that Benfica jersey proud. So, perhaps it's better to say that on Lisbon Derby Day Benfica and Sporting should play not only their Portuguese players but the foreign ones who have been around and have stuck around 5-10 years because they love their team.

It's not going to be a walk in the park for Benfica. A win tomorrow will put them still tied for first place. Depending on other results in the league a win for Sporting will get them to 7. Sporting have the fans on their side. The Sporting Claque's will be at full force against Benfica's Claque's. Sporting are out of all UEFA competitions which mean they have only the league to worry about now. At this time of year turning around and coming back to finish in the top 5 is not out of the question. Sporting have to start playing their games with a no pressure attitude. The results will start coming in for them. If Benfica lose points tomorrow then they will be in the same position as they were last year and that is chasing Porto for first place. Something that as a Benfica fan I hate going through on a yearly basis.

In total, Benfica has 69 titles while Sporting CP has 45 titles. The only cup that Sporting has won more then Benfica is the Portuguese Super Cup. I must add that Benfica has two back to back UEFA Champions League and several finals. Has Sporting ever gone past the round of 16?

For all of my Sporting fans
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7aW7mXMSZlE

The What Ifs ...

Think of the possibility of being able to have a say in making decisions for your favorite team in the world. All of a sudden they pick you at random and decide to contact you. In my case, I daydream of receiving that call on my cell from Benfica Director of Football Rui Costa. He would ask me several questions regarding the organisation and what ideas I can contribute towards the 2012/13 season. It seems surreal and not realistic, however that is the whole fun of imagination and following a sports team. The what ifs. 

If my Benfica Soçio card or Rui Costa granted me the power to make reasonable decisions throughout the 2012/13 campaign, I would do the following:

First and foremost I would do everything in my power to make Benfica this years League Champions, and Portuguese Cup Champions and UEFA champions (I know 3 for 3 are high hopes but maybe 1 of 3). If it means that a few people have to disappear on an opposing team or teams (I.E. a certain person at a certain blue team is run down in a Benfica parking lot) then so be it.

In the past 20 years (1992 - now) FC Porto have won 1 UEFA Cup + 1 UEFA Champions League. Benfica 0. FC Porto have won 15 League titles. Benfica 3.I'm not making excuses but let's not forget Benfica did have a period of time when they were almost broke during 1994 - 03. If we had greater finances and maybe a better President (Go to hell Vale e Azevedo) things might of gone differently. Also, FC Porto President Pinto Da Costa is just as corrupt and powerful than any other Soccer figure in the world (Research Apito Dourado).  I can go on and on.

 

How does Benfica compete with FC Porto?

 

Currently in this year's campaign both teams are tied for first place. I strongly feel at this moment what will decide this year's title will be the head - to -head games (It doesn't help that Benfica's second last game of the season is at at The Estádio do Dragão) Benfica's adapted LB Melgarejo has done a decent job filling in the position. However, I feel James Rodriguez and Jackson Martinez are going to run right through him.Benfica still needs a proper LB. My first order of business is to find a strong, experienced, LB during the January transfer window. This is the missing puzzle on this defence.

So who? Well, I would try to bring back Coentrão and keep him until he is done (lets face it, Benfica have not had a decent LB since he left) but, that is just a dream. At one point there were talks that Coentrão was frustrated at Real Madrid and would welcome the return back to The Luz. The reality is Coentrão signed a 6 year deal with Real Madrid  worth approximately 30 million euros which also involved Garay and for him to return to The Luz would cost Benfica a lot of money. Something that Benfica shouldn't do so freely being a half of a billion dollars in debt. With that being said all of the big teams are in debt and big signings is a constant trend in the soccer world. So, I would go ahead and take some of the money we made on Witsel and Garcia and bring back Coentrão.  There were many names that were rumoured in the summer transfer window. Fabio (Manchester United now QPR) Ziegler (Juventus) Angel (Roma), Rojos (Now signed with Sporting, poor guy) and most promising Eliseu (Because he was Portuguese) and a few others.

Another missing factor is Benfica needs to tighten up the mid. Yes, we all miss Witsel and Garcia  but they are gone. We have better chances seeing Coentrão put on that jersey again then those guys. Matic has been a decent holding mid throughout the campaign. He defends by attacking the opposition. During the Celtic game he was one of Benfica's best players. He is also not scared to come up and take s shot on goal. He is great but still lacks something. I can't say its confidence, and he is still young so maybe he lacks a bit of experience. I feel if he was paired up with a more experienced midfielder it could help Matic become a stronger, more confident midfielder. The other option is to bring in someone to start as a number 6 and them have Matic come off the bench.

Who? Granero (QPR) would be great. He is 25 at his prime.I feel he would do well at Benfica is Spanish and came from Real Madrid. Let's face it anyone coming in from Real Madrid or Barcelona always has an impressive track record. Not realistic because he just left Real Madrid in the summer and signed a 4 year deal with QPR.

If you want to keep it Portuguese. There is a few names that come to mind. Custódio has been at Braga since 2010. If Benfica is buying the 29 year old they might have to raise their price a bit. I'm sure Braga is getting annoyed at Benfica stealing their players over the years. (Artur, Lima, but it's ok that we sold them Nuno Gomes and loaned out Ruben Amorim)

Adrien Silva (23-Sporting) is another name that comes to mind. I don't know how much better of a job he would do playing with or competing against Matic. He is someone Benfica may be able to get on the cheap. Even though Sporting is in shambles, I can't see them selling one of their key players right now especially to a rival team.

Like him or hate him Miguel Veloso would look good in a Benfica jersey.(Benfica told him at one point that he was too fat to be a soccer player) This is not because of who Antonio Veloso was to Benfica and what he meant for Benfica. In his heart Miguel Veloso was always Benfica. I`m sure when he was a kid he would watch his Father play and would dream of the day that he put on that shirt. The press this guy would get returning back to Portugal and playing for Benfica as opposed to his youth team Sporting, all of the Sporting fans would be outraged that he did not come back and play on their soon to be demoted team. At the press conference him and his dad would be hugging and crying and expressing their love for Benfica. It would be awesome!
Veloso is a good midfielder and he can play well. Don`t get me wrong I would take Witsel and Garcia over Veloso any day.  This past summer he had a decent performance for the National team. Since he left Sporting in 2010 he played for Genoa in the Serie A and is currently at Dynamo Kiev. Let's face it, it's too cold over there he will want to come back.

 

OK, the Veloso thing is more of a tabloid fantasy. I`m all about sticking it to the FC Porto and Sporting fans (no pun intended) The smartest and logical thing that Benfica can do with their mid is continue to build on it`s B squad and Junior squad. Watch out for up and coming midfielders like Leandro Pimenta, and most obvious captain Miguel Rosa to explode onto the senior team.We also have guys like Ruben Amorim (Braga loan) who can play as a 6 and also Airton (Flamingo loan) who like André Almeida (now signed until 2018 with a 30 million euro recession clause) may just need a chance to shine.

 

It appears JJ is doing a better job this year in rotating squad. One can`t help but to believe that it has something to do with the recent Presidential elections. Rotating squad means a healthy squad which also means less frustrated players on the bench which is also good for morale. As long as Benfica can continue to stay healthy and confident and not give up points and most importantly defeat FC Porto (at least at The Luz) there is no reason why they can`t win the season.

 

Again, this is my imagination running wild as a passionate Benfica fan.(If I could I would get married at The Luz and have Rui Costa be the priest) The reality is if Benfica does acquire any new players they will do what most Portuguese clubs do best and that is buy cheap south American players, develop them, and then sell them for profit. All one can do is dream.

 

 

OLÁ! JOÃO!

Neil Fernandes

 

If you were to ask me this past summer if I knew who Ola John was and what he would bring to the Benfica squad, I would of looked on his Wikipedia page and told you the following:

1) 20 year old Liberian born winger. Now Dutch.

2) Played 2 years for FC Twente scored 9 goals.

Benfica acquired John for approximately 9 million euros (at this rate it will eventually be 12) during the summer transfer window of 2012 from FC Twente of Holland.

What has John done since his SLB arrival?

 

According to his stats:

John has played 2 League games and assisted 1 goal. John has played 3 UEFA Champions League games and had a remarkable goal against Celtic and also has 1 assist during the competition.

Until recent, John was receiving no game time. They bought him and sat him on the bench. A good, young player who was hungry to play. Now if you're Ola John you might be thinking, why the hell did I leave my home to come here?

We all wondered what was JJ's plans with the young 20 year old? During the pre-season not only was the team stacked with strikers but Benfica was stacked with almost one dozen wingers such as;

Nolito

Gaitán

Salvio

Enzo

Bruno César (adapted winger)

Urreta (where is he?)

Djaló (not much competition)

Fernández (on loan to Olhanese)

Amorim (could of also been an adapted winger)

And these names don't include the squads at Benfica B or Benfica Jr.

At one point we thought John would just stay on the B squad and if he got to play at all. With Gaitán, and Nolito not in the best form as of late, and with potential January transfer rumours flying high, (There may be a potential exit for both of those players Gaitán to Anzhi and Nolito possibly back to Spain) John, may continue to start and permanently become a start at The Luz. However, if you look at every good young player overtime what made them great was competeting for a starting 11 spot on their team. Competition is always good for every player. We don't want to push the kid and give him a larger then life ego. Things don't just fall into place, he has to work hard and continue to prove to himself, the coach, and the fans that he is the real deal.

 

If there is another left winger player who can compete for the same spot as John (I.e Nolito, César, even Melgarejo) then for every practice and game John will have to continue to prove himself. If there is no competition for his spot and he is expected to start every game regardless of his form, then the kid will either begin to not give a shit or not try as hard, or worst case scenario crash and burn.

I notice this right now on Benfica with Maxi. As much as I love Maxi, (when I filled out my Benfica membership, I voted him in my top 3 next to Benfica's captain, then Aimar) why was he always starting every game over the last 2 seasons?

There was no competition for someone else to start in his position and unfortunately, some games he lacked his normal energy because he was bored or burnt out. However, if you noticed the most recent UEFA champions league game vs. Celtic this past Tuesday, it was André Almeida who was starting and not Maxi in the RB role. Was Maxi hurt? or is Almeida competing for a top spot?

It is an exciting time for Benfica fans. Benfica is currently in first with FC Porto and still surviving the Portuguese Cup and UEFA Champions League. I'm excited to see how John and all of the other fresh young talent will contribute to the 2012/13  Benfica campaign.

VIVÁ OLÁ JOÃO E VIVÁ O BENFICA!