The stage is set for a thrilling showdown between Sporting and Benfica as they clash in the second leg of the volleyball championship playoffs. Edson Valencia, Sporting’s Venezuelan opposite hitter, is determined to lead his team to victory after their loss in the first leg at the Luz.
“We’ve been saying it since the start of the season – our biggest rivals are ourselves and our own game,” Valencia said. “If we can reach our best level, we’ll be able to win, no matter how good the other team is.”
The Sporting players are eager for fan support, with Valencia hoping families will come out to enjoy the match. “It would be great if the fans could come out,” he said. “We need all the support we can get.”
After analyzing the first leg, Valencia acknowledged that it was a tough match. “We knew it was going to be a tough final, and we got a bit too eager,” he said. “But we played some great volleyball at times. Now, we just need to correct our mistakes and avoid some errors.”
Benfica, on the other hand, is looking to build on their 3-1 win in the first leg. Their coach, Marcel Matz, is focused on the task at hand. “Our goal was to win the first game at home, and we did that,” Matz said. “But our goal remains the same – to win every game, including the ones away from home.”
Matz is aware that Sporting will be looking to bounce back. “We know what we need to work on and improve,” he said. “We’re also thinking about our opponent’s strategy. Will they try to improve on their weaknesses or play to their strengths? We’re focused on our own game plan. It’s going to be an open match.”
The Road to Victory
For Sporting, the key to success lies in reaching their top form. Valencia emphasized the importance of self-improvement. “If we can get to our best level, we’ll be able to beat anyone,” he said.
Benfica’s Matz is taking a more measured approach. “We’ve got a clear plan, and we’re sticking to it,” he said. “We’re not getting too ahead of ourselves.”
As the teams take to the court, the atmosphere is expected to be electric. Valencia is hoping fans will come out to support his team. “We need all the help we can get,” he said.
The second leg promises to be an intense and closely contested match. Will Sporting be able to bounce back from their first-leg loss, or will Benfica continue their winning ways? One thing is certain – it’s going to be a thrilling encounter.