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Benfica Surprises in Champions League, Advances to Quarterfinals as Top Contender



    

Benfica's journey in the Champions League this season has been nothing short of remarkable. When they started their campaign in the third qualifying round in August, many experts did not expect them to significantly impact Europe's top club competition. This was primarily due to the fact that the team had a disappointing season by their standards, and expectations were low.

However, as the tournament progressed, Benfica began to show its true potential. Under their new coach, Roger Schmidt, the team kept improving and advancing. They are now in great form and are considered one of the strongest contenders in the decisive stages of the competition. This is a significant change from previous seasons where they were not regarded as a strong opponent in the tournament.

                    

Benfica's success this season can be attributed to its excellent performances and the teamwork of several key players. Gonçalo Ramos, Rafa Silva, João Mário, and Gonçalo Guedes, who arrived in the winter transfer window from Wolverhampton, have been crucial to the team's success. Additionally, Benfica's defense has been rock solid, with Chiquinho, Florentino, Antonio Silva, Nicolás Otamendi, and Álex Grimaldo leading the way.

One of the team's defining moments this season was their unbeaten run in the group stage, which included powerhouses Paris Saint-Germain and Juventus. This was a significant achievement for the team, who surprised everyone with their performances. Moreover, they recently won a crucial match against Club Brugge 5-1, securing their biggest Champions League home victory and advancing to the quarterfinals with a 7-1 aggregate score.

Benfica's impressive form is not limited to the Champions League. The team has lost only once in 42 matches this season and is unbeaten in their 19 home games. Additionally, they are comfortably leading the Portuguese league, eight points ahead of their rival, Porto. With 23 goals, they currently have the most prolific attack in the Champions League, one more than Napoli and two more than defending champion Real Madrid.

Despite their success, the team remains humble and focused on the task at hand. They know that there are always strong opponents in the Champions League, and they respect every team they face. Nevertheless, they are determined to continue playing their best football and to reach the semifinals, a feat they have yet to accomplish since 1990 when they eventually lost the final to AC Milan. Last season, they were eliminated by the eventual runner-up, Liverpool, in the last eight.

Benfica's next opponent in the draw on March 17 remains unknown. However, the team remains confident that they can overcome any challenge and reach their goal of reaching the semifinals. With their excellent form and strong teamwork, Benfica's players are not too concerned about their next opponent. They remain focused on playing their best football and are eager to continue their successful run in the Champions League.

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