The Benfica legend says Angel Di Maria could be the key to success against Bayern Munich

Benfica legend Nuno Gomes is one of many people who are absolutely excited to see the Portuguese club take on Bayern Munich in the Champions League.

“As a Benfica fan, I always want Benfica to win. I know it's difficult, but it's not impossible. Bayern are an excellent team, very strong, and when they play at home they want to take control of the game from the start. “Benfica must be strong defensively and try to do as much as possible to prevent Bayern from scoring at the start of the game,” Gomes told Philipp Kessler of Tz (as captured by @iMiaSanMia). “Bayern presses and defends high. They leave a lot of space behind the defensive line, but also have strong and experienced defenders. Di Maria is a very intelligent player, technically strong and could make the difference. Pavlidis and Aktürkoğlu are also very dangerous if you give them the space to show their qualities.”

For Gomes, Bayern goalkeeper Manuel Neuer will be another central figure in the game.

“For me he is still one of the best goalkeepers in the world and one of the reasons why Bayern are so good. I hope he is not at his best in the game against Benfica because I think Benfica will create some chances,” noted Gomes. “I'm not good at predicting but I want Benfica to get a good result. I think Bayern are the favorites but a draw would be a good result for Benfica. I predict a 2-2 draw because I like to see goals.”

Looking for more thoughts and analysis on FC Bayern Munich's upcoming Champions League match against Benfica Lisbon, as well as reaction to Bayern Munich's draw with Bayer Leverkusen in the DFB Cup? What about our views on the latest news about Joshua Kimmich, Jamal Musiala, Leroy Sané and Alphonso Davies – and what could happen if Bayern actually find a way to sign them all? Great, then check out our “Bavarian Podcast Works – Flagship Show” on Patreon, Spotify or below: