Munich, Germany – Hansi Flick expressed satisfaction and optimism following his team’s 1-0 victory against Benfica in the Champions League, despite a challenging reduced to 10 men after Pau Cubarsi received a red card.
Acknowledging the setback of Cubarsi’s dismissal, Flick chose to focus on the resilience and strong response shown by his team during the match. “What Pau does happens in football, and today it happened to us. We all make mistakes,” Flick commented. Emphasizing the team’s cohesive defensive performance, he praised their ability to manage the match effectively even with a player disadvantage.
Following Cubarsi’s red card, Flick strategically substituted Dani Olmo, clarifying that the decision was based on tactical considerations rather than performance. “They were tactical adjustments,” Flick explained, highlighting the need to adapt to the circumstances of the game seamlessly.
Notably, goalkeeper Szczesny received praise for his outstanding performance during the match. Flick commended Szczesny’s growing confidence and consistent improvement in defense. The decision to make Szczesny the team’s No. 1 goalkeeper at the beginning of the season, ahead of Inaki Pena, has proven to be a wise choice looking at his recent performances.
Flick’s thoughtful approach to managing the team and making strategic decisions has showcased his leadership skills. With a strong emphasis on teamwork and adaptability, Flick has guided the team to success, even in challenging situations. The victory against Benfica is a testament to the team’s resilience and ability to overcome setbacks, setting a positive tone for future matches in the Champions League.