‘We cannot be afraid’ – Benfica boss issues plea ahead of Rangers Europa League tie
Benfica Jorge Jesus said that up to 20,000 fans should be allowed into the stadium to watch Rangers face Benfica at the Estádio da Luz on Thursday.
With two group stage matches played, both sides have perfect records and will face off in a top of the table battle this week.
Benfica were allowed 4,875 fans for their last home fixture and Jesus wants more supporters to be admitted on Thursday, as his side look for a record-breaking 24th home match unbeaten in the Europa League.
“The stadiums of the big three clubs in Portugal, Benfica, Sporting Lisbon and Porto all have the conditions not to endanger public health, as long as everything is well organised, with entrances and exits by different sectors,” Jesus said (via The Scottish Sun).
“There is no absolutely no need to limit the game to 5,000 supporters. We could easily accommodate 15,000 or 20,000 for the match against Rangers. We have to know how to live with this virus that has changed our lives. But we cannot be afraid, we have to know how to live with it in all areas and ensure there is prevention.”
Difficult situation
Since the return of football earlier this year, fans in the UK have been unable to attend matches, with a number of clubs suffering financially as a result.
However, in Europe some leagues have slowly allowed their return, with Benfica hosting more than 4,000 during their last home game.
Given the differing situation with regards to infections across Europe, it is tough to determine how safe allowing 20,000 fans in for this game would be.
Furthermore, given the rest of the matches are behind closed doors, it could almost be seen as giving Benfica an advantage over Rangers, who will have to play the reverse fixture in an empty Ibrox.
As reported in The Athletic today, fans in the UK are very unlikely to be able to return to grounds until 2021 at the earliest.
Ultimately, the decision lays with the Portuguese authorities, but Rangers and their hierarchy should potentially be given a say in any discussions.
In other Rangers news, Steven Gerrard ‘delighted’ after failed Leeds bid for star player