Real Madrid fans were left divided as centre-back Dean Huijsen was named in the starting lineup for their UEFA Champions League knockout play-off first-leg clash against Benfica on Tuesday. The 20-year-old has featured prominently in the competition this season, with one goal and two assists in 26 appearances across all competitions.
Despite starting in Madrid’s recent 4-1 victory over Real Sociedad in La Liga, where he conceded a penalty leading to Sociedad’s goal, fans expressed concerns over Huijsen’s inclusion in the crucial European tie. One fan tweeted, “Huijsen is the only worry in this line-up,” while another wrote, “Should be a comfortable win if Dean Huijsen doesn’t play like he’s lacking brain cells.”
Others, however, remained optimistic, with one fan commenting, “Very good line, Trent and Valverde playing together will help a lot. Hope Huijsen has a good game.” Another fan highlighted defensive vulnerabilities in the lineup, stating, “The defence is weak. Huijsen, Rudiger, and Trent all aren’t good defensively.”
The match against Benfica holds extra significance for Real Madrid after their 4-2 loss at the same stadium last month, which saw them miss out on direct qualification to the Champions League knockouts.
Real Madrid boss Alvaro Arbeloa expressed his determination to progress past Benfica, led by former Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho. Despite their personal relationship, Arbeloa is focused on the task at hand and aims to eliminate Benfica from the competition.
Reflecting on his relationship with Mourinho, Arbeloa stated, “If I invite him, it will be someday for lunch. He doesn’t need to sit on the grey sofa. We are good friends.” He added, “My goal is to eliminate Benfica. From there, I wish him and his family all the best.”
Mourinho, who has faced his former club on multiple occasions with limited success, will be looking to overcome the odds and lead Benfica to victory against Real Madrid in the Champions League clash.
As the two teams prepare to battle it out on the field, fans eagerly await the outcome of what promises to be a thrilling encounter. Whether Huijsen can rise to the occasion and help Madrid secure a positive result remains to be seen.
