Commons: Let’s raise hell in Paradise
The Hoops have reached this stage of European football’s elite club competition for the first time in four years and the landscape, it is widely believed, has become even more technical, methodical and cerebral in the interval.
However, Scotland midfielder Commons is looking for the blood and thunder start to the match that often characterised big nights at Celtic Park.
“I always like it at 100 miles per hour from the first whistle,” he said. “That’s just me. When the players come out to the music and everyone is at that peak, the fans are itching for you to get that early goal and that’s how I like it to be.
“I like to let the other team know they are in for a game in the first 10, 15 minutes.
“I like them to know this is the maximum noise, this is how we play, this is how we are going to pressure you or this is how we are going to settle, and let them know they are not in for an easy night.
“We are looking to stamp our authority on the game, there is nothing like playing at home in the first game to try give yourself the chance to get points. If it is three points then magic, but if not we will be looking to get one and try to get the ball rolling.’’
Celtic’s section also includes Barcelona and Spartak Moscow but Commons does not believe the difficulty of the task that lies ahead means the pressure to succeed is any less.
“We are not there to make up the numbers and let teams beat us willy nilly,” said the former Derby and Nottingham Forest player.
“We are looking to win every single game and that probably includes Barcelona away.
“We’ve got to aim high and give a good account of ourselves.’’
Manager Neil Lennon recognises the boost a full house at Parkhead can provide for the home side but with some reservations.
“We have to be careful we don’t get picked off if we are going to press Benfica,” said the Armagh man. “But traditionally, at home, we do like to play a quick tempo.
“It is a quick pitch and it will be watered beforehand but that might suit both teams. I think the game will be at a fast pace.’’
For his part, Benfica coach Jorge Jesus is confident his side can overcome the absence of captain Luisao — banned for two months for pushing over a referee — in tonight’s clash.
The Brazil defender was given the domestic ban for an incident with official Christian Fischer during a pre-season friendly with Fortuna Dusseldorf.
“We are very confident,” Jesus said.
“We are prepared for all conditions. The fact this has happened to Luisao is important, but we have other players.
“The last three years Benfica have been in the Champions League. We’re prepared for this match and we want to try to achieve a good result.”
