Angel di Maria has said Benfica were not “comfortable” in the Champions League following their exit from the group stage after a string of disappointing results.
The Portuguese side lost all four of their group games, falling Salzburg and Inter Milan before a 3-1 defeat at Real Sociedad on Wednesday night.
Speaking to Omasports in San Sebastián after the game against Sociedad, Di Maria said: “In the first game things didn’t go well with the expulsion and the penalty. We started badly. We had the illusion of having a good Champions League, but it ended this way. We will continue to do what we are doing in the League, continue to win and do things well.
@slbenfica_en’s Angel Di Maria speaking to Omasports and other journalists after Benfica’s defeat to Real Soceidad in the champions league. pic.twitter.com/1WeViCIHrL
— Oma Akatugba (@omaakatugba) November 10, 2023
“We just weren’t comfortable in the Champions League. We didn’t do well in those games. We are in all competitions in Portugal and three points behind Sporting. If we win, we’ll be tied for first place.
However, the Argentine World Cup winner says he’s happy at the club, who are currently second in the Portuguese top division and face league leaders Sporting on Saturday.
“I’m happy at Benfica. I will try to do my best to reach the 39th title and win two Cups. The important thing is to think positive and improve.”