Benfica manager Jorge Jesus rued the fact that captain Luisao was banned also banned from European matches on the eve of his clubs Champions League opener.
The Brazilian defender was given a two-month ban for his attack on a referee in a pre-season match in Germany which had not included games in Europe until last night when FIFA decided to ban him from all games for that timeframe.
Jorge understands the decision may be disruptive for his team but he insists that everything will go into beating Celtic at Parkhead in their opening Group G fixture tonight.
"We prepared for all conditions. The fact this has happened is important, but we've still got players to come in," he said.
"My concentration is on the opponents, missing players is a secondary concern.
"We are working on a model to win like we do against any other side, if it's Barcelona or anyone else.
"We have spent the last two weeks preparing for the Celtic game and that has intensified in the last three or four days. We are ready and confident.
"Benfica have been in the Champions League for the last three years and we are looking to get the result we want which is winning."
