AEL coach Hugo Martins, regarding Thursday’s match (October 22, 10:00 p.m.) for the third round of the Europa League at GSP Stadium, where Omonia will host Benfica.
The Portuguese coach analyzed Henning Berg’s game plan, offered his own prediction, and named his compatriots as clear favorites. In fact, he singled out Muamer Tanković and noted that the “Greens” create a… electric atmosphere at their home stadium.
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Here’s what he said in detail:
“They have a quality team, even though they lost their forwards, Maé and Willy Semedo. The coach, Henning Berg, has his own distinct playing philosophy. Although the team doesn’t yet have the same cohesion and isn’t at last year’s level—because new players have joined—the tactical approach remains very similar.”
He also added about Omonia: “Last season, the team functioned better as a whole, but some of the chemistry among the players has been lost. However, the team is on an upward trajectory. It may take a little time, but the quality is there. They’re in good form. Now, just like last year, during defensive transitions—when they lose the ball high up the field—they don’t apply as much pressure, which leads them to concede more counterattacks. Benfica, with higher-quality players, can take advantage of this. When they regain possession deeper on the field, they’ll have plenty of space to move forward and capitalize on the transitions. However, Benfica is a major club, and that might inspire Omonia’s players to rise to the occasion and be more competitive.”
The Portuguese coach of AEL singled out 31-year-old Swedish midfielder Muamer Tanković as the player to watch: “He’s the most creative player. He’s excellent at the final pass, can make a difference on set pieces, and is crucial to the coach’s style of play.”
Hugo Martins warned about the atmosphere Benfica will face: “I believe Benfica is much stronger; there’s a big difference both individually and as a team. However, Omonia is playing at home, in front of a packed stadium. They’re the Benfica of Cyprus and the team with the most fans on the island. They have a strong atmosphere and are in good form. On the other hand, Benfica plays very well, with plenty of movement and combinations down the wings; they manage to pull opponents to one side and shift the direction of the game. Omonia will face many challenges. For Omonia, 80% of their matches are games in which they must take the initiative. They’re an extremely attacking team, but I don’t think they’ll be able to impose their dominance against Benfica. They’ll find themselves in situations that are unusual for them.”
