Benfica’s recent Elite Cup triumph felt like more than just another win. Coach Edu Castro was visibly pleased with his team’s collective effort in the final against Sporting. He even suggested this trophy could kick off a truly historic journey for the Eagles. Castro hopes Benfica can achieve something no other team has managed before.
The final against Sporting was a tight affair, just as Castro had anticipated. He mentioned that games like these often end with a 3-2 score. Sporting’s goalkeeper was their best player on the field. This showed how much Benfica pushed forward. Benfica played an aggressive, one-on-one style. They pressed their opponents high up the pitch. The final minutes were tough, though. Sporting played with an extra attacker, making Benfica work hard. Castro stressed that winning titles requires a lot of effort and even some hardship. He assured Benfica fans that these hard-fought victories are making up for the titles lost last season.
Keeping the same group of players has been a big plus for the team. It allows their work to build up over time. The players keep improving on the foundational tactics they already know well. Castro firmly believes the team is moving in the right direction. Still, he emphasized the need for daily training to keep getting better.
There was a moment of concern for Roberto Di Benedetto during the match. He wanted to return to play after taking a heavy hit. However, the medical rules correctly advised him to stay off the field. It was a significant fall, and player safety is paramount. Castro thinks Di Benedetto is okay, but he will undergo a re-evaluation.
For Edu Castro, this Elite Cup is merely the first step. He has set a clear and ambitious goal for the season. He wants Benfica to become the first team in history to win the national championship after securing the Elite Cup. It’s a bold vision, turning this early trophy into a launching point for a potentially unforgettable campaign.