Argentinian international, Nicolas Otamendi, captain of the first football team at Portuguese club Benfica, spoke about his team's upcoming match against Real Madrid in the eighth and final round of the league stage in the UEFA Champions League, scheduled to take place tomorrow, Wednesday.

Otamendi spoke about the criticism he faced: 'The criticism I faced? It was not a source of complaint for me but rather support. The fans feel the same way we do; they have the right to demand things from us. These are stages we have to go through, and the only way to overcome them is through hard work and doing our best.'

He continued about his role with younger players: 'I am a person who lives for the club. In training, I do my best to be a role model for the younger players. Younger players must identify the requirements of experienced players.'

He added about maintaining his level: 'Reaching the top is easy, but staying there is the hardest part. We live in a time that requires intense focus. My goal is to live each day as it comes.'

Regarding Benfica's chances of qualifying: 'Benfica's chance to qualify? Clearly, we know the result we need to achieve, which is to win. Our first priority is to win the match, and then we will wait and see.'

About preferred players to play alongside: 'Thomas, Antonio, and Gonzalo all have great talent and capabilities. Each of them has different characteristics, but they all have high quality. It's a healthy competition for the team.'

On how to face Mbappe: 'Mbappe is a top-class player with immense capabilities, but Real Madrid is not just one player. We have to deliver a perfect performance, both defensively and offensively.'

Otamendi concluded his talk about professionalism: 'There will be times when we suffer. I am a very objective and realistic person. I always strive to be professional, whether at the club or at home. The important thing is to take care of oneself, whether in terms of diet or training.'