Benfica relying on ‘extraordinary’ Goncalo Ramos in Inter clash
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Benfica striker Goncalo Ramos has 17 goals in 23 league appearances this season, and seven in 12 in the Champions League.
PHOTO: EPA-EFE
LISBON – A lot of responsibility lies at the feet of Benfica hitman Goncalo Ramos, who is aiming to fire his side past Inter Milan and into the Champions League semi-finals for the first time since 1990.
The striker is growing used to the pressure, shooting into the global football consciousness during the World Cup in December when he was picked to start for Portugal ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo in the last 16 against Switzerland.
He scored a hat-trick as his country thrashed their opponents 6-1,
In March, he dazzled against Club Brugge
Inter’s visit to Lisbon on Tuesday is an opportunity for the 21-year-old to put himself in the shop window, as many other young Benfica talents like Enzo Fernandez, Joao Felix, Ruben Dias and Ederson have done over the years.
Ramos’ development at the club took a step forward when he filled the void left behind by Darwin Nunez last summer, and he has now been linked with Real Madrid, Manchester United and Chelsea.
“I am very satisfied with Goncalo Ramos, but not only for what he did against Club Brugge,” said Benfica coach Roger Schmidt.
“I love his attitude, which he gives to the team. He is young, he is scoring goals in the Champions League and it is normal for him to attract the attention of other clubs.”
Ramos’ 17 goals in 23 appearances in the Portuguese top flight have helped Benfica open up a seven-point lead at the top of the table.
He has also netted seven times in 12 appearances in the Champions League, including the qualifying rounds.
“Goncalo has had an extraordinary season,” said new Portugal coach Roberto Martinez in March.
Ramos has formed a strong link on the pitch with Joao Mario, who is enjoying the best scoring season of his career.
The midfielder is benefiting from Ramos’ build-up play and well-rounded game, honed over his seasons as a support striker to Nunez.
Some have compared Ramos to Bayern Munich forward Thomas Muller, a parallel the forward enjoys, although he is stronger in the air.
“I have some similarities to him, and he is also an example for me. I like being compared to him,” admitted Ramos.
Muller, 33, has won the Champions League on two occasions, the same number as Benfica have in their history – while Ramos is yet to lift a trophy in his fledgling career.
But Benfica are undefeated in Europe this season and have a strong defence, and are fully aware their best chance of reaching the semi-finals hinges on Ramos and his superior finishing. AFP
