Bayer Leverkusen coach Kasper Hjulmand lauded his exceptionally young squad for their gritty 1-0 victory over Benfica, highlighting the team’s fight and vast potential despite their inexperience.
Hjulmand described the match as “very difficult,” noting both teams desperately sought the win. He acknowledged Benfica as a formidable opponent.
“I think we have the youngest team in Europe on this journey,” Hjulmand told Sport TV after the match. He emphasized the group’s “lot of inexperience” but celebrated that “the players today gave everything.”
The coach expressed satisfaction with the hard-fought result. “We have a lot of potential and can play better, but we fought and are very happy with the win,” he stated.
Hjulmand also provided tactical insights on Benfica defender Grimaldo. He noted that Grimaldo’s positional fluidity, often dropping left to create space, makes him an “extraordinary” play creator with a “fantastic sense of space.”
He further commented on Morten Hjulmand, a player he coached for the Danish national team. Kasper Hjulmand unequivocally stated that Morten “can play in any team in the world.”
He lauded Morten’s personality, quick learning ability, and continuous improvement. “Every time he takes a step, it’s a big step,” the coach remarked.
The 1-0 scoreline was secured at Benfica’s home ground, known as the Luz stadium.