Barca coach Frank Rijkaard responded to Ronald Koeman´s claim that Barca thinks that they have won the match against Benfica already and described FC Barcelona as a "bit arrogant". Rijkaard believes that his Benfica counterpart Koeman tries to create a certain atmosphere with his claims just to motivate his players and fire up the fans before the match tomorrow eveing. Responding to the claims of Koeman that Barca should pay a bit more respect to his Benfica team and its achievements the calm Barca coach commented: "We are not arrogant. The claims are false. We respect our opponents."
Frank Rijkaard is well aware of the strength of the Benfica squad, having eliminated Manchester United and last year´s Champions League winner Liverpool FC.

The Barca coach also believes that FC Barcelona´s midfield star Deco will receive special attention from the Benfica supporters in the stadium, having played many years for their arch rival FC Porto.