Benfica have released a statement confirming two of their players are okay, after sustaining injuries in a stoning attack on the team bus after a game last night.
German Julian Weigl and Serbian Andrija Živković were hit with shrapnel and taken to hospital as a precaution.
It came after the Portuguese side's goalless draw against lowly Tondela behind closed doors, which saw them miss out on the chance to move clear of title rivals FC Porto.
Fans had gathered outside the Estadio da Luz for the game, and the incident occurred on a motorway between the stadium and a training facility.
Weigl said in a statement on the club's official website that they were fine, and said those who were involved in the incident weren't "real" Benfica supporters.
"We were really lucky! We are all making mistakes, but there was a line crossed. I know that the real Benfica supporters are not like this! The last weeks should have shown that the best solution is to stand together, instead of throwing rocks to each other!
"Thank you for your kind messages! I appreciate everyone reaching out."
Andrija Živković also spoke out, saying there was no justification for the behaviour that led to their injuries.
Thank you for your support.#SLBCDT pic.twitter.com/oE3BOTMssA
— SL Benfica (@slbenfica_en) June 5, 2020
"We would like to inform you that we are both well. Unfortunately, we cannot justify this behaviour. However, we assure you that we will keep fighting for SL Benfica! Thanks for all recovery wishes and the great support!"
The club itself had originally released a statement condemning the attack and saying they would co-operate with local police to catch those responsible.
"Sport Lisboa e Benfica repudiates and regrets the criminal stoning against the players’ bus near the A2 (highway) exit, on their way to the Academy in Seixal, after the match against Tondela, Thursday night at Estádio da Luz.
"We inform that, for precautionary reasons, the players Julian Weigl and Zivkovic, were immediately taken to Hospital da Luz, due to the glass splinters which hit them.
"Sport Lisboa e Benfica assures its complete collaboration with the police forces, appealing to their biggest effort, in order to identify the delinquents responsible for these criminal acts."
Nine rounds of games remain in the Primeira Liga, with Porto and Benfica currently level on 60 points apiece. Benfica lead with their goal difference five superior to that of Porto.
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