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Porto vs Spartak Moskva: Dragons Show Readiness
The Liga Sagres leaders went through lasting celebrations after defeating archrivals Benfica 2-1 away from home at the weekend, but Coach André Villas-Boas has no concern over his men’s physical status ahead of their match against Spartak Moskva. "The party we had at the weekend will not be a problem on Thursday," the manager said in a session he had with the press earlier on.
“After the party, comes the challenge of returning to this (Europa League) competition with a competitive attitude. Playing the first leg at home won't be a problem... We will take the example of the year we won the UEFA Cup (back in 2003), when the away matches were fundamental to our progress through each round."
Porto vs Spartak Moskva match page
Benfica vs PSV: Red-Whites To Exploit Benfica’s Defensive Weakness
PSV coach Fred Rutten admits that his Portuguese opponents are no minnows, but he is still convinced that playing with a positive approach could be the ideal solution to bring down the Eagles. According to Rutten, Benfica are yet to rectify their errors at the back, and it is in this area that the Dutch side plan to take advantage.
"Benfica are the strongest team we have faced until now,” Rutten affirmed. “At home, they attack a lot, and sometimes they forget the defence—which is why they concede so many (goals).
“Individually Benfica have strong players that can win matches. But, like all teams, they have their weaknesses and we will try to exploit them."
Villarreal vs FC Twente: Yellow Submarines Looking Far...
Villarreal boss Juan Carlos Garrido and his fighters are already dreaming of succeeding fellow-Spanish club Atletico Madrid as Europa League winners this season. Garrido’s soldiers trampled Napoli and Bayer Leverkusen on their way to the Last 8, and now, the coach is confident that his side is strong enough to earn the title.
“We're strong enough to achieve success here,” he said. “So I have asked my players to do their best to win this competition. It is easy to say, but we are demanding our utmost in an attempt to win a title.”
Garrido however conveyed awareness over his opponent’s capabilities, adding: “We are facing a great team that is first in the Dutch league and in great form. We respect them and know their qualities.”
Dynamo Kyiv vs Sporting Braga: Portuguese Contenders Determined But Cautious
Braga have been gaining reputation in Europe lately through valuable achievements, but Coach Domingos Paciência still believes that his club will need to give their 110% this evening against a deadly Dynamo Kyiv side. “The quarterfinal is already a great attainment for us,” he asserted.
“But after beating the likes of Celtic, Sevilla FC and Liverpool, we do not wish to stop here. We respect Dynamo and I believe they are among the tournament favourites.”
Dynamo Kyiv vs Sporting Braga match page
All Europa League matches this evening kick-off at 21:05 CET. The return-leg matchday of the quarterfinals is set to take place on 14 April, 2011.
