While the Benfica boss expressed "huge respect" for Martin O'Neill's side, he made it clear that his side would leverage their home advantage to the fullest on Thursday evening.

Silva said: "Celtic is a massive club, so we're going to face a massive club. It's a club with a big tradition as well, and they are used to fighting to be champions and winning games every single time."

Silva acknowledged Celtic's less-than-ideal start to their European campaign, but insisted that the Scottish champions are eager to retaliate. He added: "The start of the European competition has not been what they expected really, but the reality is they want to react.

"Players are used to the pressure and know what it means to play for a big club and to win. It's going to be a difficult game."

(Image: Neil Hanna / Shutterstock)

Silva also recognised Celtic's dedicated fanbase, predicting another strong showing in Lisbon. He said: "The Celtic fans are going to show that again.

"It's not the first time we've received them at the Benfica stadium, and it's going to be a pleasure to have them there.

"But it's not easy to play in our stadium, and it's going to be a tough night for Celtic."

Despite Benfica's convincing 7-2 aggregate victory over Hearts in the Europa League qualifiers, Silva anticipates a different challenge from Celtic. He said: "Celtic is a big team; they are capable of doing a lot of things.

"They are used to winning. Scottish football speaks for itself, so it will be a different game.

"We need to be at our best to win this game and to align that with a good performance from our side."