Otamendi Reflects on Benficas Setback Against Qarabağ in Champions League Opener

The defender and captain of Benfica, **Nicolás Otamendi**, commented on the team’s defeat against Qarabag (2-3) in the opening match of the group stage of the 2025/2026 Champions League. The Portuguese side lost a two-goal lead during the match.

«We need to be self-critical and recognize what we need to improve. This is not the time to place blame. It will be a long journey, and no one can assure us that even with a win, we will advance to the next stage of the Champions League. We must accept this and move forward.

Each of us needs to focus on self-improvement. I think it’s painful to lead 2-0 and then concede a goal from a set piece. We need to push on and work even harder. Our goal is to deliver strong performances and earn three points in every match,» Otamendi stated after the game during an interview with Sport TV.