The Ukrainian international has faced the Scottish champions before while playing for Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League.

He recalls the atmosphere generated by the Celtic Park crowd back in 2022. Sudakov said: "Benfica v Celtic feels like a derby. I've played against them in the Champions League when I was at Shakhtar.

"It's something special, a big game."

As Benfica prepare to meet Celtic in the upcoming Europa League clash, Sudakov and his teammates are aware of the challenge that lies ahead. "We're preparing well for the match," he said.

"We're just focusing on our own team and we'll see what happens tomorrow - We'll try to make our fans happy and also enjoy every match."

Sudakov was 19 when he first experienced Celtic's supporters during a Champions League encounter, an experience that left a lasting impression. "It was a special atmosphere," he recalled.

"When I played there I was 19 and it was mad. I'll never forget that atmosphere. Celtic are a great club; they have great supporters, just like Benfica.

"They really get behind the team."