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Neil Lennon: 'Benfica are not easy pushovers'

Lennon wary of Benfica threat
© PA Photos
Celtic manager Neil Lennon warns his side against taking Benfica lightly and highlights the individual talent their Portuguese opponents have.

Celtic manager Neil Lennon believes that his side need to be defensively at their best in order to defeat Benfica on Tuesday.

The Scottish champions are in Lisbon for their Champions League Group G clash against the Portuguese giants.

"We have to be defensively at our best and attack when we can," he said. "If we fail to qualify now, it would be a wasted opportunity. But the job is not yet done.

"Nemanja Matic has been very important for Benfica. The full-backs and centre-backs too [are important]. [Lorenzo] Melgarejo is fantastic. I know Lima well from the time we faced Braga.

"Also Oscar Cardozo is a terrific striker, but Benfica are not just about individuals. They are strong as a team and don't lose their identity when the coach changes some players."

Celtic are currently second in Group G with seven points from four matches, three points ahead of third-place Benfica.

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