Benfica find out Champions League opponents

Benfica have learned their eight opponents in this seasons league phase of the Champions League after their nail biting win over Fenerbahce 1-0 and the competition will be fierce as the Lisbon club looks to advance into the knock out rounds once again this season.

Benfica were drawn at home against, Real Madrid, Bayer Leverkusen, Napoli and Qarabag, while they will travel to Chelsea, Juventus, Ajax and Newcastle. They exact dates and times of the games won't be released until the end of the month.

Benfica will be in tough with the magic number of wins to reach the knock out face being at least four games. Last season's final spot into the knock out round saw the 24th place club in the competition finish with 11 points and a 3-2-3 record with a goal differential of -4.

New name pops up on Benfica radar

A new name has popped up on the Benfica shopping list, this time the club is linked with a move for Levante's 22 year old midfielder Carlos Alvarez, with negotiations said to be heating up as the transfer window nears a close.

According to sources Abola and Marca, Benfica is keen to bolster its attack and Alvarez's name has emerged as a prime target. The transfer fee is said to be in the €15 million to €25 million range, though Benfica are looking to keep the fee on the lower end of the range.

Sevilla, Alvarez's former club would be entitled to 40% of any transfer deal between Benfica and Levante. Since joining Levante from Sevilla's youth system his performances with Levante helped the Spanish side climb back into La Liga, he scored seven goals and provided twelve assists in 43 contests last season.

Alvarez excels in chance creation, ranking highly for progressive passing and assists, with a flair for threading ambitious through balls. His dribbling ability allows him to take on defenders, though his shooting frequency and goal efficiency could improve.  

With a contract until 2027, Alvarez’s recent role as a substitute may facilitate the move. Benfica sees him as a creative spark to complement the club's strikers, offering pace, flair and goal-scoring potential. If finalized, this transfer could mark Alvarez as a key piece in Benfica’s ambitious campaign 

Benfica interested in Shakhtar Donetsk attacking midfielder

Benfica have reignited their interest in Shakhtar Donetsk’s attacking midfielder Georgiy Sudakov, a 22-year-old Ukrainian talent with a bright future. According to recent reports, the Lisbon giants are prepared to make a significant investment, with Shakhtar demanding upwards of €40 million for the dynamic playmaker.

Sudakov’s contract, which runs until 2028, and his €150 million release clause, suggest negotiations could be complex, but Shakhtar are not said to be willing to accept anything less than the reported €40 million for the Ukraine international.

Sudakov, a versatile No. 10, would be a perfect fit for Benfica’s attacking philosophy under Bruno Lage. His ability to score (15 goals last season) and create (6 assists) would add flair to Benfica’s midfield, complementing their high-pressing, possession-based style.

His compatriot, Anatoliy Trubin, already at Benfica, could ease his integration, fostering chemistry on and off the pitch. However, competition from Napoli, Juventus, and Premier League clubs like Arsenal and Liverpool could complicate matters for Benfica.

If Benfica secure Sudakov, he could replace Orkun Kokcu's creative spark from the middle of the field, becoming a long-term midfield cornerstone and elevating their European ambitions. 

Benfica change directions on player acquisition target

Benfica have decided against moving winger Kerem Akturkoglu back to his native home after Fenerbahce decided to pull their original €25M deal for the 26 year old Turkish international and replace it with an offer of just €15M, which ended all negotiations between the two clubs.

Benfica is said to have found Akturkoglu's replacement in Wolfsburg winger Mohamed Amoura and it was reported that the club and player had agreed to terms before the German side went wild with an asking price of between €35M-€40M, which Benfica balked at.

The club is now determined to look towards adding an attacking midfield piece before the transfer window closes who will be able to move the ball between the midfield and into the club's attack more smoothly. This tactical move shows the club's lack of confidence in their current option of players on the squad.

With an all important winner take all game coming up next week at the Luz against Fenerbache for a spot in this seasons lucrative Champions League phase, the club's direction could once again change if they were to miss out on advancing and drop down to the Europa League this season.

The club have been linked with players Thiago Almada and Giannis Konstantelias already this summer, who could fill this role but Almada joined Atletico Madrid instead and Giannis has been linked to a host of clubs across Europe but has yet to move from PAOK.

Look for Benfica to become more aggressive in the next 2 weeks as they look to bolster a position of weakness and build off of that this season.  

Benfica and Wolfsburg trying to hammer out agreement for Amoura

Benfica is making waves in the transfer market, with negotiations intensifying for Wolfsburg’s Algerian star, Mohamed Amoura. The 25-year-old forward has emerged as a top target for the Eagles, who aim to bolster their attack for the 2025-26 season and their European campaign.

This potential move could rewrite Benfica’s history, with a reported €35 million transfer fee poised to make Amoura the club’s most expensive signing ever, surpassing Richard Rios' €27 million that the club paid Palmeiras earlier this summer for the midfielder.

Amoura’s 2024-25 season with Wolfsburg showcased his explosive talent. In 34 matches across all competitions, he scored 10 goals and provided 9 assists, totaling 2,729 minutes. His pace, versatility, and clinical finishing earned him acclaim as one of the Bundesliga’s top breakthrough talents. While for Algeria, Amoura has 25 caps and 11 goals.

Benfica’s interest, backed by coach Bruno Lage and sporting director Rui Pedro Braz, reflects their ambition to replace the void left by Angel Di Maria. The club has tabled a €27 million offer plus bonuses, though Wolfsburg demands €30–40 million, with some sources citing a fixed €35 million valuation by the club.

Negotiations are ongoing, with Benfica proposing a phased payment structure to meet Wolfsburg’s expectations. Despite Amoura already agreeing to personal terms with Benfica, Wolfsburg’s firm stance and his contract until 2029 are posing challenges.

The urgency to finalize the deal is driven by Benfica’s upcoming Champions League play-offs against Fenerbahçe on August 20 and 27, 2025. Amoura’s potential arrival could provide the dynamism needed to unlock defenses. However, Wolfsburg’s manager, Paul Simonis, remains non-committal, noting a “50-50” chance of Amoura staying, especially after a recent thigh injury limited his training. 

If successful, this transfer could mark a new era for Benfica, with Amoura’s flair and goal-scoring prowess set to electrify the Estadio da Luz. Fans eagerly await updates as the transfer window nears its climax and Benfica looking at reinforcements for the season. 

 

Benfica set to kick off 2025-26 league campaign

Benfica launch their 2025-26 Portuguese League campaign on August 16, 2025, with an away clash against Amadora at Estadio Jose Gomes. Under Bruno Lage’s stewardship, the Eagles are eager to reclaim the league title after a close second-place finish last season. Following a strong pre-season and a 4-0 aggregate Champions League qualifying win over Nice, Benfica go into the game brimming with confidence.

Lage, who returned to Benfica in 2024, has instilled a high-pressing, dynamic style, with new signings like Franjo Ivanovic, Richard Rios and Enzo Barrenechea bolstering the squad. The Eagles recent 1-0 Super Cup triumph over arch rivals Sporting, signals their intent towards the season.

Amadora, coming off a 1-1 draw against Estoril, will lean on home support but face a tough challenge. Their recent form is shaky, with only one win in their last nine home league games and Benfica have won their last six league encounters against them. Despite a spirited 3-2 loss to Benfica last season, Estrela’s attacking struggles could prove costly. 

 

Benfica get past Nice to set stage with Fenerbahce

Benfica delivered a commanding performance, defeating Nice 2-0 in the second leg of the UEFA Champions League third qualifying round at the Estadio da Luz, securing a 4-0 aggregate victory. The Portuguese giants showcased their dominance with goals from Norwegian duo Fredrik Aursnes and Andreas Schjelderup, ensuring their progression to the playoff round.

Benfica’s tactical discipline under coach Bruno Lage was evident, as they controlled possession and limited Nice to zero shots on target, with Franjo Ivanovic and Richard Rios shining in attack and midfield. Nice, despite early pressure, couldn’t overcome Benfica’s organized defense, extending their 65-year wait for Champions League group stage football. 

Now, Benfica faces a thrilling challenge against Jose Mourinho’s Fenerbahce in the Champions League playoffs, with the first leg set for August 20, 2025, in Istanbul, and the return leg on August 27 at Estadio da Luz. 

Fenerbahce, fresh off a 6-4 aggregate comeback against Feyenoord, powered by goals from Talisca, Youssef En-Nesyri, and others, will be a formidable opponent. Mourinho’s tactical acumen and Fenerbahce’s attacking flair promise a high-stakes battle. 

Benfica, with their rich European history, are determined to reclaim a spot in the 36-team Champions League group stage. Fans eagerly await this blockbuster clash, as the Eagles aim to soar past Fenerbahce for a coveted place among Europe’s elite. 

Benfica continue winger quest to bolster roster for the season

As the summer transfer window heats up, Benfica is actively seeking a dynamic winger to reinforce their attacking options for the 2025-26 season. With ambitions to dominate the Portuguese League and make a strong impression in European competitions, the Eagles are keen to address gaps in their squad, particularly on the flanks.

Benfica’s current wing options lack experience and with the season ending injury to Bruma and possible departure of Akturkoglu before the window closes, the club needs, at minimum two more options to bolster the squad for the upcoming season.

The club is reportedly targeting a winger capable of cutting inside, delivering precise crosses, and contributing goals to complement strikers Vangelis Pavlidis and Franjo Ivanovic. Names linked include promising talents from South America and Europe, with scouts focusing on players blending youth and experience to align with Benfica’s long-term vision.

However, Benfica’s strong financial position, bolstered by recent player sales and competition prize money allows them to compete for top targets. Feyenoord's Anis Hadj Moussa, Man United's Antony and Dario Osorio from Midtjylland are a few of the names that have been linked with Benfica to date.

The transfer window closes September 15 on arrivals to Portugal but with the Portuguese League season under way. The club needs to move quickly while big names are still on the board. 

 

Benfica take the first leg in France over Nice

Benfica delivered a masterclass performance, securing a 2-0 win against  Nice in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League third qualifying round at Allianz Riviera. The Portuguese giants showcased their European pedigree, taking a significant step toward the group stage with a disciplined and clinical display.

The match was a tale of two halves. The first half saw both teams probing cautiously, with Benfica holding slightly more possession (52.6%) but struggling to break through Nice’s organized defense. Nice, despite their home advantage and a strong Ligue 1 campaign last season, managed only two shots on goal. 

The tide turned in the second half when Franjo Ivanovic opened the scoring in the 53rd minute, capitalizing on a precise cross from Aursnes to slot the ball past Nice’s goalkeeper Yehvann Diouf. Florentino Luis sealed the victory in the 88th minute with a stunning long-range strike, leaving Diouf helpless.
 

Benfica’s tactical discipline under Bruno Lage was evident, with their 4-2-3-1 formation stifling Nice’s transitions. Despite missing key players like Tomas Araujo. Kerem Akturkoglu and Bruma, Benfica’s depth shone through, with Vangelis Pavlidis and Aursnes dictating play. Nice, hampered by injuries to Mohamed Abdelmonem and others, struggled to create clear chances.

The result gives Benfica a strong advantage heading into the second leg at home in Lisbon, to move into the playoff stage where either Feyenoord or Fenerbahce will await for a place into this season's Champions League, league phase.

Benfica continues pursuit of winger during summer window

Benfica is actively seeking to bolster their attacking options, with wingers Anis Hadj Moussa, Roger Fernandes, and Dario Osorio emerging as key targets in the transfer market. Following the departure of Angel Di Maria and a season-ending injury to Bruma, the Eagles are prioritizing a dynamic right winger to strengthen their squad for the 2025/26 season.

Anis Hadj Moussa, the 23-year-old Algerian star from Feyenoord, is Benfica’s top choice. Despite rejected offers of €15M plus bonuses, negotiations continue, with Moussa reportedly eager to join. His 11 goals and 3 assists in 43 games last season highlight his potential.

Roger Fernandes, a 19-year-old Portuguese talent from Braga, is a compelling alternative. His five goals and four assists in 48 appearances across all competitions, showcase his promise, but Braga’s €40M asking price poses a significant hurdle. 

Dario Osorio, the 21-year-old Chilean at Midtjylland, was considered but has been deemed too expensive, with negotiations stalled due to high financial demands from the Norwegian club. Benfica’s pursuit reflects their ambition to maintain dominance in the Portuguese League, while balancing youth and experience in their attack. Fans await Rui Costa’s next move.

Benfica soar to Super Cup glory, set sights on Nice

In a thrilling kickoff to the 2025-26 Portuguese season, Benfica clinched the Candido de Oliveira Super Cup with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over arch-rivals Sporting at Estádio Algarve yesterday.

The Lisbon giants showcased their resilience, with Vangelis Pavlidis emerging as the hero. His opportunistic 50th-minute strike, deflected off Sporting’s Morten Hjulmand and past Rui Silva, sealing Benfica’s 11th Super Cup triumph.

Despite a tense finish and Sporting’s late pushes, including a squandered chance by Pedro Gonçalves, Benfica’s defense, led by Antonio Silva, held firm. New signings like Richard Rios, who played the full 90 minutes, signaled a promising season under Bruno Lage.

The victory, celebrated by fervent Benfiquistas chanting “I love Benfica!” in the stands, was a morale booster after Benfica’s Club World Cup exit to Chelsea. It also marked sweet redemption following last season’s Taça de Portugal final loss to Sporting. Lage praised his squad’s cohesion after just 15 days of preparation, setting an optimistic tone for the challenges ahead.

Now, Benfica shifts focus to a crucial two-leg UEFA Champions League third-round qualifier against Nice, starting next week. The Eagles face a stern test against the French side, with a playoff berth at stake for the Champions League league phase. 

Despite a modest pre-season, Benfica’s Super Cup performance showed tactical discipline and attacking intent, though Lage will demand sharper finishing to overcome Nice. With new additions like Amar Dedic and Samuel Dahl bolstering the squad, Benfica is poised to soar in Europe. The red-and-white faithful are ready for the pilgrimage south, dreaming of more silverware.

Benfica Secures Rising Star Franjo Ivanovic from Union Saint-Gilloise

In an exciting move for Benfica fans, the Portuguese giants have finalized the transfer of promising Croatian striker Franjo Ivanovic from Union Saint-Gilloise. The deal marks a significant addition to Benfica’s attacking lineup as they gear up for the 2025-26 season.

The transfer fee has been set at a substantial €23M, with an additional €5M in potential add-ons, bringing the total package to €28M. This agreement also includes a sell-on clause of 20%, ensuring Union Saint-Gilloise benefits from any future profit should Ivanovic move again.

The 21-year-old forward, is signing a contract until June 2030 and has arrived in Lisbon this evening to undergo his medical examination, a key step before officially donning the Benfica jersey. His arrival has already sparked enthusiasm among supporters eager to see his impact on the pitch.

Ivanovic’s breakout 2024-25 season with Union Saint-Gilloise, where he scored twenty goals and provided five assists in 46 appearances, highlighted his potential. His role in securing the Belgian club’s first league title in 90 years caught the attention of several European clubs, including Benfica, who outmaneuvered competition from Wolverhampton and Eintracht Frankfurt. 

The young striker’s versatility and goal-scoring prowess make him an ideal complement to Vangelis Pavlidis, strengthening Benfica’s attack under coach Bruno Lage. This transfer underscores Benfica’s ambition to reclaim dominance in the Portuguese League and excel in European competitions. 

Ivanovic’s journey from HNK Rijeka to Union Saint-Gilloise and now to Lisbon, reflects his rapid rise in football. As he prepares to join pre-season training, fans are optimistic about his contribution and await the official announcement of Ivanovic's move to Benfica, as he begins his Benfica chapter! 

Benfica host Fenerbahce in Eusebio Cup

Benfica will host Fenerbahce in the 14th edition of the Eusebio Cup later today at the Estadio da Luz, looking for their third straight victory in the competition. Benfica have faced off against some top clubs in the game that honours club legend Eusebio, with Real Madrid, Arsenal, AC Milan, Inter and Ajax to name a few. Benfica defeated Feyenoord 5-0 in last seasons game that was attended by over 54,000 fans.

Benfica turn to Jupiler Pro Leauge for striker

Benfica is ramping up its efforts to bolster its attacking options, with reports indicating that the Portuguese giants are in advanced talks with Union St. Gilloise to sign Croatian striker Franjo Ivanovic.

The 21-year-old forward is being eyed as the ideal backup for Benfica’s striker, Vangelis Pavlidis, following the imminent departures of Arthur Cabral, Andrea Belotti and Casper Tengstedt. According to multiple sources, including SportTV and Maisfutebol, Benfica is prepared to offer around €20 million for Ivanovic, though Union St. Gilloise is holding firm for a fee closer to €25-€30 million.

The €25-€30 million wanted by Gilloise is a significant jump from the €4 million that they paid to HNK Rijeka last summer for the players acquisition. Ivanovic had a breakout 2024-25 season with Union St. Gilloise, playing a pivotal role in their first Belgian league title in 90 years. The young striker scored an impressive 20 goals and provided 5 assists in 46 appearances across all competitions.

His physical presence, clinical finishing and ability to contribute in big moments, evidenced by his two goals for the Croatian national team in just four caps to date, have also attracted interest from various clubs. 

As Benfica looks to maintain its competitive edge in the Primeira Liga and European competitions, Ivanovic’s versatility and goal-scoring prowess make him a strong candidate to complement Pavlidis. As the two clubs proceed with negotiations fans are eager to see if Rui Costa can finalize the deal for the promising Croatian talent in the coming days. 

Benfica find out Champions League qualifying opponents

Benfica have learned their fate if they are to qualify for this upcoming seasons edition of the Champions League when they where drawn against French side Nice, earlier today in the 3rd qualifying round set to take place next month.

Benfica will travel to France to take on Nice on August 5, 2025, with the return leg at the Estadio da Luz, which will take place on August 12, 2025. The winner of the contest will advance to the playoff where they will face one of Fenerbahce, Feyenoord, Panathinaikos, Rangers, Servette or Viktoria Plzen, for a place in the League Phase of the competition. 

 

Luis Filipe Vieira looks at Benfica Presidency once again

Luis Filipe Vieira looks to make a comeback bid to become Benfica's club President once again when elections happen on October 25, 2025, replacing the man who replaced him in current club President Rui Costa.

The world of football is no stranger to drama and one of Portugal's most storied clubs, is once again at the center of a gripping narrative as the club's former President from 2003 to 2021 has announced his intention to run for Presidency after departing the club due to legal trouble.

This narrative has sparked debate between the club's passionate fanbase, with opinions split between nostalgia for his bygone era to skepticism about his return to the club.

Luis Filipe Vieira's tenure as the club's President was nothing short of transformative, taking over in 2003, he inherited a club grappling with financial turmoil and a lack of competitive success. Over his 18 year reign, the longest in Benfica history, Vieira over saw a remarkable turnaround.

Under his leadership, Benfica captured seven league titles, multiple domestic cups and re-established themselves as a force on the European stage, reaching two Europa League Finals. His focus on modernizing the club's infrastructure, training facilities and broadcasting home games on Benfica TV, helped restore financial stability and global prestige.

However, Vieira's presidency was not without controversy. His 2021 resignation came amid the "Cartao Vermelho" investigation, which alleged fraud, money laundering and tax evasion involving deals. Vieira was placed under house arrest, while he maintained his innocence.

The lack of formal convictions has emboldened him to re-enter the spotlight, arguing that the justice system's failure to act, clears the path for his return to the club once again. 

Vieira's decision to run again, announced this month, has sent shockwaves through the Benfica community, sources close to the former president confirm that he has been actively rallying support from key figures and club members, with his pre-campaign already in motion. 

His platforms appear to center around restoring Benfica's dominance once again through his proven track record in charge of the club and attributing the club's current sporting and financial crisis to current president Rui Costa.

Vieira has stated that a victory by him will see him move to replace current manager Bruno Lage with ex-Porto manager Sergio Conceicao but his 2021 exit does have some fans and members wary of revisiting the controversies of his era and his reliance on specific agents when making transfer dealings, known as "Vieirismo".

This election does have the fan base deeply divided. Older supporters, who recall the club's struggles before Vieira's tenure, view him as a saviour who restored Benfica's pride. While younger fans, associate him with scandals and wonder if his return would hinder progress.

The 2025 election is shaping up to be a fierce contest, as along side Vieira and Costa, other candidates include Joao Noronha Lopes,  Joao Diogo Manteigas, Cristovao Carvalho and Martim Mayer.  Lopes is the more serious candidate of the four, receiving 34.71% of the votes cast during the last election. 

An expected record turnout of members on October 25 will decide if the club is to return to the old guard, maintain the status quo, or move into a fresh start. This result will be a defining moment for the club over the next four years.      

Benfica should look to Brazil for another striker

Benfica currently can count on one established striker for the upcoming season, with starter Vangelis Pavlidis as the sole player up top at this time. The club moved on from Arthur Cabral, selling him to Botafogo earlier this summer and the team does not seem interested in making Andrea Belotti's loan move from Como permanent.

The Lisbon club will be looking to add more depth to the striker position before the start of the season and one location they should look towards is Brazil and Serie A leading scorer Kaio Jorge, who is currently applying his trade for Corinthians.

Jorge is a dynamic forward with a blend of technical ability, physicality and goal scoring instinct. The 23 year old has already had a stint in Europe with Italian sides Juventus and Frosinone, where he showed some glimpses of potential despite limited playing time due to injuries and competition.

Returning to Brazil in the summer of 2024 looks to have brought back the player's confidence and form, making him an attractive prospect for Benfica, as he ticks many boxes that club looks at when acquiring a younger player from abroad.

Benfica was linked with Jorge back in the summer of 2021 while he played at Santos, but the player and club could not come to an agreement on financial terms and Jorge ended up moving to Italy, joining Juventus.

Jorge's versatility to play as a central striker or in a supporting role could provide tactical flexibility for Benfica manager Bruno Lage and his acquisition from Corinthians should not break the bank, keeping the club inline with their current budget plans as Jorge should be had for under €15M.

Benfica working on trio of acquisitions to strengthen squad

As the 2025-26 football season approaches, Benfica are looking to make bold moves in the transfer market to bolster its squad under the guidance of manager Bruno Lage. The Portuguese giants are reportedly working on a trio of high-profile acquisitions in, Joao Felix, Thiago Almada, and Enzo Barrenechea, as they aim to blend experience, youth, and international flair into their lineup.

Benfica's ambition comes with a significant financial commitment. The club is negotiating Joao Felix's return from Chelsea, with reports suggesting an offer of approximately €21-€25 million for a 50% stake in the player, though Chelsea values him at around €60 million. Felix, a product of Benfica's youth academy, carries a hefty release clause of $370 million, but the club is leveraging his willingness to return and his limited role at Chelsea to negotiate a more feasible deal.

When it comes to Thiago Almada, Benfica has proposed €28-€35 million for a 60% share, though Botafogo, his parent club, is holding firm at €40 million. The negotiations are complicated by Almada's loan stint at Lyon and ownership dynamics involving John Textor but Benfica are hoping to take advantage of Lyon's financial difficulties which include a need to raise €100M to avoid relegation to Ligue 2 but need to beware of Atletico Madrid's interest.

Lastly in regards to Enzo Barrenechea who is currently with Aston Villa, he is valued at around €10-€12 million, a figure Benfica is prepared to meet despite competition from FC Porto and Valencia. These investments reflect Benfica's strategy to secure long-term assets while navigating financial constraints and rival interest. 

The trio's statistical output from the 2024-25 season underscores their potential impact. Joao Felix, split the season between Chelsea and Milan, featured in 41 matches, accumulating 1,965 minutes. He scored 10 goals and provided 2 assists, showcasing his flair as a forward and his ability to influence games despite inconsistent playing time. His experience in top leagues like the Premier League and Serie A could prove invaluable as Benfica targets a strong Champions League campaign.

Thiago Almada, during his loan at Lyon, played 20 games (1,209 minutes), scoring 2 goals and delivering 4 assists. His versatility in midfield and contribution to Lyon's European efforts highlight his potential to add creativity and dynamism to Benfica's midfield, which Benfica require, especially with the departure of attacking midfielder Orkun Kokcu to Besiktas.

Enzo Barrenechea, meanwhile, impressed in his loan spell with Valencia, making 32 appearances (2,247 minutes), scoring 1 goal and registering 2 assists. His defensive midfield presence and consistency in La Liga suggest he could be a stabilizing force, particularly as a potential successor to Florentino Luis, who is also rumoured to be on his way out of Lisbon.

Acquiring these players aligns with Benfica's goal to reclaim dominance in the Portuguese League and excel in Europe. Joao Felix's homecoming could rekindle his early promise and boost fan morale along with team identity, though his high salary demands pose a challenge.  

Thiago Almada's international pedigree, including his role in Argentina's World Cup success, brings a global perspective to the squad, potentially elevating its competitiveness in the Champions League.

Enzo Barrenechea's youth and work rate offer a cost-effective solution to add midfield depth, addressing the departure of key players like Orkun Kokcu. Together, this trio could form a balanced attack and midfield, blending offensive creativity with defensive solidity. 

The transfers are not without hurdles. Chelsea's reluctance to lower Felix's price, Botafogo's firm stance on Almada and competition for Barrenechea could delay or derail these current deals that are being worked on.

Additionally, Benfica's financial limitations, exacerbated by the need to qualify for the Champions League group stage, require careful budget management. However, the club's optimism, fueled by player interest and strategic negotiations involving agents like Jorge Mendes, suggests a proactive approach to the season. 

Benfica's pursuit of Joao Felix, Thiago Almada and Enzo Barrenechea represents a calculated gamble to reshape its squad for the better. If successful, this trio could transform Benfica into a formidable force, blending nostalgia with new talent for the 2025-26 season. 

While financial and competitive challenges loom, the potential reward of a revitalized team makes this a compelling narrative to watch as the transfer window unfolds during these summer months.

NOTE: Thiago Almada signed with Atletico Madrid on July 16, 2025 and Benfica has signed Enzo Barrenechea on loan on July 18, 2025.

Benfica announce new stadium capacity for 2025-26 season

Benfica have completed the first phase of their stadium seating capacity project as they work to hit their goal of raising capacity to 70,000 seats by the 2026-27 season.

The Estadio da Luz will now be able to hold 68,100 fans for the 2025-26 season, which is an increase from 64,642. Benfica will also be completely  replacing the pitch shortly and this should be done in time for the Eusebio Cup on July 26, where they will face Turkish club Fenerbahce. 

Benfica learn path to defend Taca da Liga title

Benfica learned over the past few days their path to defending their Taca da Liga crown in the eight team competition that is set to kick off in October.

As the runner up in the Portuguese League last season, Benfica will face second division winners Tondela in the quarter-final stage, where the winners will move on to face either Braga or Santa Clara in the semi-finals.

The final four will once again take place in Leiria with the Finals set for January 10 2026.

The Quarter-Final matchups:

Benfica vs Tondela

Braga vs Santa Clara

FC Porto vs Guimaraes

Sporting vs Alverca 

Benfica schedule for the 2025-26 season released

The Portuguese League has released the schedule for the upcoming 2025-26 season yesterday and Benfica has learned their path to recapturing the league title once again.

Benfica will open the season at home against Rio Ave on the weekend of August 9-10, they will then travel to Amadora for their first road game the following weekend.

Benfica will face FC Porto in the Classico in Week 8 (October 4-5) when they travel to the Dragao with the return affair at the Luz taking place in Week 25 (March 7-8).

The Lisbon Derby with defending league champions Sporting will go in Week 13 (December 6-7) at the Luz and Week 30 (April 18-19) in Alvalade. 

Other notable games that the club will play during the 2025-26 season will be against Braga at home in Week 33 (May 9-10), while they travel to the Azores to take on Santa Clara in Week 22 (February 14-15) and Madeira to face Nacional in Week 12 (November 29-30). Benfica will wrap up their season against Estoril on the road in Week 34 (May 16-17). 

Game dates and times are yet to be confirmed and subject to change depending on the club's schedule and how they fair in certain competitions.

Click Here for Full Schedule 

Antonio Silva turns down Al-Hilal approach

Saudi club Al-Hilal is said to have made an approach for Benfica center back Antonio Silva and the offer was a lucrative €45M to acquire the players services but the Portuguese center back declined to make the move to Saudi Arabia as he felt it is too early in his career to change continents.

The 21 year old is once again on teams radars, after a strong performance at the Club World Cup, which Benfica were just eliminated from in the round of 16 a few days ago. Benfica is open to listening to offers for Silva who looks to have regained his confidence this season but the player would also have to agree to the potential destination.

Silva has been with Benfica since an early age, having come up through the club's famous Seixal academy. He got his big break with the club during the 2022-23 season when Benfica where hit with a rash of injuries to their back line and has never looked back.

Silva has appeared in 140 games with Benfica across all competitions, scoring nine goals and providing three helpers in those games. He was a key piece of Benfica's youth squad along with Tomas Araujo when they captured the 2021-22 UEFA Youth League title, snapping Benfica's run without a European trophy since the 60's. 

Benfica could still get Felix if they get creative

Benfica have not given up on their pursuit of Joao Felix but the club will need to get creative if they are going to land their former Seixal academy player to the squad for the upcoming season.

The current stumbling block of any move the club is to make for Felix is his current annual salary which stands at around €9M per season, way over what the club could handle for a full season.

Benfica has been linked with both a loan move and permanent move of Felix during this off season, but with the player signed until the summer of 2031. It would make sense that the club go the route of a loan spell with Chelsea.

Chelsea is a club that could use a stronger back line and Benfica have two players that have already been linked to the London club in center backs Tomas Araujo and Antonio Silva.

Could Benfica get Felix on a full season loan, with almost all expenses paid if they are to move one of their young center backs to the London side? 

Benfica value both defenders at around €30M to €40M euros but could look at making a sweeter deal with Chelsea if they where to cover at least 75% of Felix's contract for the upcoming season.

If Benfica where to move either defender to Chelsea, they could make the move for €25M and have a Felix loan as part of the deal, if they really want to push the button, they can look at a two year loan spell for Felix with 75% of his salary covered.

Benfica have hope for a reunion with Felix this summer but unless there is a creative way to make the move, the club may be best suited to look elsewhere to bolster their squad this summer. 

 

 

 

 

Benfica game plan against Chelsea goes by the wayside in exit

In a disappointing last 16 encounter for Benfica at the Club World Cup, Chelsea secured a 4-1 victory over 10-man Benfica after going into additional extra time in a match that lasted over four hours due to an almost two-hour weather delay. 

The game, played in hot and humid conditions at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, was a rollercoaster of drama, that featured a spectacular free kick, a controversial penalty, a red card and a late flurry of goals that propelled Chelsea into the quarter-finals of the tournament where they will face Palmeiras.

Chelsea dominated much of the match, thanks to a Benfica side that decided to sit back and try to repel their attack, but a lightning storm in the 86th minute disrupted the game, leading to a chaotic finish to regulation time and an extended extra-time period. Despite Benfica’s resilience and a late equalizer, going down to ten men just two minutes into additional time, sealed their fate. 

Chelsea controlled much of the possession of the first half and created the better chances with Marc Cucurella’s curling effort cleared off the line by Benfica defender Antonio Silva, followed by a  Cole Palmer powerful near post shot that was turned away by Benfica’s goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin and the game went into the half scoreless. Benfica, led by veterans Angel Di María and Nicolas Otamendi, relied on counter-attacks but struggled to penetrate Chelsea’s defense.

Reece James would break the deadlock with a stunning free kick from a tight angle at the 64 minute mark, curling the ball into the near post past a poorly positioned Trubin. The the lightning storm would sound arrive sending the players off the field and onto exercise bikes to stay active during the delay.

After the restart, Benfica capitalized on a VAR decision which clearly showed Malo Gusto with his arm in an abnormal position, awarding the club a penalty on a handball in the box. Angel Di María, in his final match for Benfica, calmly converted the penalty for his fourth goal of the tournament to level the score and take the game to additional time.

Early in extra time, Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni received a second yellow card for a reckless challenge just outside the box, reducing Benfica to 10 men. This shifted the momentum firmly in Chelsea’s favour, who capitalized on their man advantage.

Christopher Nkunku restored Chelsea’s lead, in the second half of additional extra time capitalizing on a scruffy rebound after Trubin parried Moises Caicedo’s shot. A lucky bounce off of Nkunku as Otamendi slid and tried to clear the trickling ball from goal, saw the Chelsea attacker lift the ball over the downed defender.

Pedro Neto scored Chelsea’s third, racing clear down the right and curling a precise shot past Trubin after an exhausted Di Maria was dispossessed in midfield. This goal effectively sealed the match, with Neto continuing his fine form.

Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall added gloss to the scoreline with a delicate chip over Trubin after a long ball from goalkeeper Robert Sánchez caught Benfica pressing for a goal. The goal highlighted Benfica’s exhaustion from sitting back all game in the torrid heat.

Bruno Lage's showed once again that he is not the coach for this club with his small team tactics. Benfica relied on a compact defensive structure and counter-attacks that were far and few in between. There lack of play development from the midfield was noticeable all game and they failed to take advantage of a fragile Chelsea back line.

The red card in additional time and fatigue that was griping the squad, lead to an additional extra time disaster and an exit from the Club World Cup at the round of 16 stage for the Lisbon club.

Benfica's failed usage of starting left back Alvaro Fernandez all game added many more questions of Lage's tactics and his insistence on using a very green and anxious 19 year old Prestianni over more seasoned players in Bruma and Tiago Gouveia proved costly to the club.

Benfica players will now get some time off before returning to camp to prepare for the Portuguese Super Cup on July 31 and the club's front office will need to shore what is a pressing need in the club's midfield if they are to have success in the upcoming season. 

 

 

Benfica stun Bayern to finish top of group

In a historic upset at the Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, Benfica secured their first-ever victory over Bayern Munich with a gritty 1-0 win at the Club World Cup in a Group C decider to finish atop of the group over the German powerhouses.

The match, played under blisteringly unbearable 36°C heat, showcased Benfica’s defensive resilience and clinical finishing, propelling them to the top of Group C and into the Round of 16, where they will face Chelsea on Saturday in Charlotte, while Bayern settled for second place and will take on Flamengo.

Benfica’s triumph was anchored by a 13th minute goal from 21-year-old Norwegian winger Andreas Schjelderup, who capitalized on a low cross from compatriot Fredrik Aursnes to fire a first-time shot past Manuel Neuer. 

The goal came after a lively start from the Portuguese side, with Angel Di Maria forcing an early save from Neuer, setting the tone for Benfica’s aggressive approach in the first half that could have saw the Eagles score two or three goals.

Bayern, already assured of knockout stage qualification, fielded a heavily rotated lineup with seven changes from their previous 2-1 win over Boca Juniors. The changes looked to have led to a lackluster first half that saw the German giants with no shots on target.

Bayern coach Kompany would bring in the big guns with three key halftime changes, as Kane, Kimmich and Olise came into the game and the Germans would take control of the contest but they had difficulty breaking down Benfica's defensive compactness and when they did keeper Trubin's heroics would take hold.

Benfica’s 1-0 win was a testament to their tactical discipline, defensive solidity, and ability to seize key moments. Trubin’s goalkeeping and Schjelderup’s goal were decisive, while Bayern’s rotated squad paid the price for a sluggish start.

This historic result not only boosted Benfica’s confidence but also sent a message to their knockout opponents, Chelsea, that they are a force to be reckoned with as the tournament begins the knockout phase.

 

Portuguese Super Cup date and place announced

Benfica's Portuguese League season for 2025-26 is set to take place against rivals Sporting as the two are set to face off in the Portuguese Super Cup (SuperTaca Candido de Oliveira) on July 31, 2025 at the Estadio do Algarve at 8:45pm WEST.

Benfica and Sporting will meet for the Super Cup for the 7th time when you include 1944 and 1964 editions, with the clubs having evenly split the first six games. Benfica will be looking to capture their tenth Super Cup and avenge their league and taca defeats to Sporting.

Benfica want to add Tigre youngster to summer shopping list

Benfica have initiated talks to acquire 20-year-old Argentine midfielder Lorenzo Scipioni from Tigre, according to multiple sources. It is being reported that Benfica see enormous potential in Scipioni, who can play both central midfield and as a defensive midfielder.

His contract with Tigre runs until the end of 2026 and it is said that he does not have a release clause written into his contract, so Benfica will have to negotiate directly with the club if they are to acquire the services of Scipioni this summer.

Tigre has already rejected approaches from Greek club Olympiacos and MLS side Colorado Rapids, although no figures are being reported it does look like Tigre will be looking for what they feel is top dollar to move on from the midfielder.  

Although Olympiacos remain inerested, Benfica are actively pursuing a deal to bolster their midfield for the 2025-26 season. Scipioni has been with Tigre since January of 2022 and has appeared in 31 games since moving into the main squad during the 2023-24 season.