Álvaro Arbeloa provided the first preview of the clash between Benfica and Real Madrid, which is part of the first leg of the UEFA Champions League playoff, following the match between the Madrid team and Real Sociedad. The coach of the Merengues warned about the strengths of the Eagles in statements to Real Madrid TV: 'We are well aware of the match in Lisbon, the difficulties involved, the atmosphere. The aggression, not only from Mourinho's teams but from the match itself.' 'We will try to achieve victory and not think about the second leg,' emphasized Arbeloa, before recalling the duel from the last round of the UEFA Champions League group stage during a press conference. The former player under José Mourinho admitted that the 2-4 defeat at the Estádio da Luz on January 28 served as a warning for the Madrid team: 'I hope history doesn't repeat itself. We will be cautious about what awaits us on Tuesday. It's a tie of 180 minutes. Arbeloa is only thinking about 'putting on a great performance' and 'winning,' likely with Kylian Mbappé in the squad. The Real coach anticipated the use of the French international, who was rested against Real Sociedad in Madrid this Saturday. 'I think he will be fit. Mbappé has been dealing with these issues for some time. He puts in a great effort every time he steps onto the field. We didn't want to take risks before Tuesday,' he admitted. Arbeloa also took the opportunity to praise Vinícius Júnior's recent scoring form, who has scored four goals in the last five matches: 'Vinícius has been playing at a high level, making a difference. He is a player who is more than just numbers. He is a kid with a big heart. I am lucky to have him.'
Benfica Real Madrid remains central to this story.
Benfica Real Madrid remains central to this story.
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