Inter Milan striker Edin Dzeko has spoken about the upcoming Champions League quarter-final clash between his team and Benfica. “The Champions League is the most challenging club competition to win. We are set to play two matches against Benfica, who are a great team. Nevertheless, we will do everything we can to advance to the semi-finals. We are taking it step by step,” the Bosnian international stated in an interview with the Bosnian website, Snevni Avaz. Inter Milan has a rich history in European competitions, having won three European Cups/Champions League titles. However, their last success came in 2010, and the Italian side is eager to emulate that success once again. Benfica, on the other hand, is a frequent participant in the competition, with two European Cup/Champions League titles to their name. Despite their successful history in the competition, Benfica hasn’t advanced beyond the quarter-finals since the 1991-92 season. The first leg of the Inter Milan-Benfica tie is scheduled for Tuesday evening at the Estádio da Luz, the home of Benfica. The match is expected to be highly competitive, with both teams eager to gain an advantage in the first leg. Inter Milan has been in excellent form this season, currently sitting in the second spot in Serie A behind only Juventus. On the other hand, Benfica has struggled for consistency in the Portuguese Primeira Liga this season, currently sitting in third place, behind Sporting CP and Porto. However, as with all European matches, form and league standings are not always a reliable indicator of success in the Champions League. Matches between top teams often hinge on small margins, and it is frequently decisive moments that make the difference in such games. Inter Milan will be looking to their star players, such as Romelu Lukaku and Lautaro Martinez, to lead the line upfront and score goals. Meanwhile, Benfica will be counting on their defence and key players, like Darwin Núñez and Adel Taarabt, to keep Inter Milan at bay and make the most of their chances. Both teams have the potential to advance to the semi-finals, and the tie will undoubtedly be fascinating to watch. The Champions League is always full of excitement and unpredictability, and this matchup between Inter Milan and Benfica has the potential to be one of the highlights of the competition. Overall, Edin Dzeko’s comments have highlighted the challenging nature of the Champions League and the respect that Inter Milan has for their opponents, Benfica. The Italian side will need to be at their best to overcome their Portuguese counterparts, and they will hope to take a step closer towards winning their fourth Champions League title.
