.jpg "Benfica advance to Taca da Liga semis as they look to defend title")
The Final Four of the competition will be played once again in Leiria with Benfica and Braga going head to head on January 6, 2026 for a place in the Finals on the Saturday of January 10.
Benfica got goals from captain Otamendi who converted a goal from the penalty spot in the first half, while Dodi Lukebakio and Vangelis Pavlidis cemented the victory with a pair of goals in the final twelves minutes of the game.
Benfica will be looking to capture their ninth Taca da Liga this season
Benfica club support members (socios) set an all time record with just over 85,000 supporters casting a ballot in the election yesterday. Current Benfica President led the way in support but garnered only 42.1% of the votes a massive drop from 2021 in which he captured 84.8% of members ballots.
Finishing in second was Joao Noronha Lopes who captured 30.2% of supporters votes, while former Benfica President Luis Filipe Vieira finished a distant third with just 13.8% of votes cast his way.
Costa and Lopes will now have two weeks to get the support of the 27+% of voters that they did not receive in the first round of elections in hopes of reaching the 50% required mark to be named the club President.
Mourinho lamented his team's lack of "horsepower" to compete, admitting Newcastle were simply too strong. This marks Benfica's third consecutive loss in the 2025-26 league phase, leaving them pointless and languishing near the bottom of the standings.
With just two goals scored and seven conceded in their three games, the Eagles' attack has been toothless, plagued by injuries and even fatigued from their domestic commitments. Fans have grown restless as Benfica face a daunting run ahead: home to Bayer Leverkusen, away at Ajax, and clashes with Napoli, Juventus, and Real Madrid.
With Presidential elections coming this weekend, the club may go into their next Champions League game with a new club President if polls are to be believed but that will have no effect on Benfica's European dreams, which are fading fast. Mourinho has a demanding task as he looks to revive the club and salvage pride.
Benfica coming off a 3rd round Taca de Portugal 2-0 win Friday over Chaves have learned their opponents in the 4th round of the competition as they get set to face city rivals Atletico who defeated Felgueiras 1932 by the same 2-0 score yesterday.
The 4th round matchup is set to take place on November 22 with Atletico as the assigned home club. You would have to go all the way back to the time of Eusebio in the 1960's for the last time these two clubs went head to head in a competitive game.
Greek striker Vangelis Pavlidis stole the show, netting both goals. He opened the scoring in the 8th minute with a clinical finish from close range, capitalizing on a swift counterattack led by Georgiy Sudakov and then made it two at the 79 minute mark.
Chaves, from the second division, struggled to contain Benfica's attacking flair, with Dodi Lukebakio and Joao Rego creating constant threats. Despite some resilient defending from the Chaves backline they could not keep Benfica off the scoresheet.
Benfica will now await to find out their opponents in the fourth round as they will face the victors of Atletico and Felgueiras.
Benfica last played a competitive game on October 5 when they traveled to Porto to take on their league rivals in what turned out to be a scoreless Classico. Benfica are hoping to capture their first Taca de Portugal since 2017 and their 27th trophy title in the competition.
Last season Benfica made their way to their first final since 2021 but lost to cross town rivals Sporting 3-1 in additional extra time. Benfica have lost their last three final appearances, one each to Sporting, FC Porto and Braga.
The transfer includes a €6.75 million loan fee, €20.25 million for the permanent switch and up to €5 million in add-ons, potentially totaling €32 million, which would become a record signing for Benfica, while Shakhtar would retain 25% of his rights towards a future sale.
Sudakov's career began in Ukraine's youth systems, joining Sokil Brianka (2013–2014) and Metalist Kharkiv (2014–2017) before entering Shakhtar's academy in 2017.
He debuted for Shakhtar's senior team in 2020 and had amassed 148 appearances across all competitions, scoring 35 goals while providing 26 helpers.
Since joining Benfica, Sudakov has hit the ground running, scoring 2 goals in 5 league games and totaling 7 appearances with 2 goals and an assist up to this months international break.
His arrival bolsters Benfica's attack, especially after a challenging start to the season. Fans are buzzing about his potential to shine in the Portuguese League and Europe. With Ukraine's national team duties adding to his profile, Sudakov's Benfica chapter should provide fireworks as he looks to grow his pedigree.
Benfica club regulations state that the elected President requires 50% of the popular vote before they can be named President of the club, so if no candidate reaches that mark on the 25th, than there will be a run off between the top two vote getters.
Noronha Lopes has become very popular with the younger members of the club who are looking for a new direction and a clean break from the Luis Filipe Vieira era. While older voters and those less likely to answer polls lean towards Rui Costa continuing as the clubs head.
Speaking of Luis Filipe Vieira, it looks like club members have had enough of the former Benfica President as based on poll results he sits a distance fourth with under 10% of the popular vote. Now what would a change at the top mean for newly appointed manager Jose Mourinho? I guess we will have to wait for election day to find out.
Benfica delivered a defensive masterclass that frustrated Porto but left a lot to be desired in a game that lacked much flair even though it was a highly intense affair that saw eight yellow cards issued amid heated exchanges between the players.
The Porto faithful pelted the field with objects, many aimed at former club manager Mourinho, while they branded signs in the stands showing their disdain with his choice to join their rivals.
Porto held possession for the majority of the game but managed only two shots on target, doubling Benfica's one.
The first half was sluggish and foul-ridden, with no shots on goal until Georgiy Sudakov's 30th minute strike was palmed away by Diogo Costa. While Porto's Rodrigo Mora almost stole all three points in the second half, when his stoppage time curl rattled the crossbar.
Porto remains in top spot after eight weeks of action, four points ahead of third place Benfica who have yet to find their groove under Mourinho's guidance. Benfica will return to action on the 17th of the month when they enter the 3rd round of the Taca de Portugal against Chaves.
His contract runs until June 2026, but sources indicate he has no intention of extending it, paving the way for a possible free transfer next summer or even a January exit if negotiations align. Enter Benfica, the Portuguese giants now led by Jose Mourinho, Benzema's former coach at Real Madrid from 2010 to 2013.
The pair enjoyed success together, with Benzema crediting Mourinho for elevating his game. Rumors suggest Mourinho is keen on reuniting with the 2022 Ballon d'Or winner to bolster Benfica's attack, which has shown vulnerabilities throughout this campaign.
Benfica's interest stems from needing a proven goalscorer for their Portuguese League title push and Champions League aspirations. However, challenges abound. At 37, Benzema's age and hefty €100 million annual salary at Al-Ittihad pose financial hurdles for Benfica, who aren't among Europe's richest clubs.
Mourinho has publicly downplayed the speculation, stating Benzema is "settled" in Saudi, but insider reports hint at interest behind the scenes. Benfica's chances? Moderate at best of acquiring Benzema unless he prioritizes European competition over money, only time will answer that question.
Despite maintaining strong possession numbers and creating several chances, the Eagles couldn't find the net, leaving them with zero points from their first two group stage matches of the competition. The performance was scrappy at best as Chelsea barely threatened, yet Benfica's finishing woes and defensive lapse proved costly on the night.
Mourinho, ever the tactician, will be frustrated; his side looked organized but lacked the killer instinct. This loss piles pressure on their European campaign, especially with tougher fixtures on the horizon.
Questions are swirling about the squad's depth and whether summer signings have gelled enough to compete at this level. But there will be no time to dwell as Benfica turns their focus to domestic matters with a blockbuster Portuguese League clash against arch-rivals FC Porto on Sunday at Estadio do Dragao.
A win here could reignite Benfica's title charge and boost morale after the Chelsea setback. Expect a high intensity game with Porto's attacking flair versus Benfica's resilient defense. If Benfica channels their frustration into focus, they could snatch some vital points away from the league leaders, so fans should buckle up as this weekend's derby might just define their season.
Ivanovic embodies the raw talent that's propelling him into Europe's elite spotlight. Ivanovic's journey began humbly at age five with SVG Mayrhofen in Austria (2008-2015), followed by a brief stint at JFG Lohwald. His breakthrough came at Augsburg's youth academy from 2016 to 2021, where he honed his skills in Germany's competitive setup. Loan spells at NK Lokomotiva Zagreb sharpened his edge before a permanent move to HNK Rijeka in 2023, where he netted 12 goals in 28 league games.
His meteoric rise peaked last season at Union SG, scoring 20 goals and adding five assists to clinch the Belgian title and drawing bids from Wolves, Eintracht Frankfurt, and Como, but Ivanovic chose Benfica. Standing at 6 foot 1, with a powerful right foot, Ivanovic is a classic target man who is aerially dominant, relentless in pressing and lethal in the box with clinical finishing.
His blend of physicality, pace, and intelligent movement echoes a young Edin Dzeko, but with a modern work rate that fits Benfica's high-pressing system. Benfica fans can expect fireworks when he and current club striker Vangelis Pavlidis gel. Ivanonic has already chipped in three goals for the club in twelve appearances playing mostly out of position.
The Eagles might have found themselves a gem... Welcome, Franjo to Lisbon and Benfica.
Yet, after 12 games of action for the club across all competitions, Rios's tenure has been a resounding bust, failing to live up to the hype of his arrival from Palmeiras. Rios has logged over 1,000 minutes but has yet to contribute a goal or an assist and has left heads scratching with his poor spot kicks.
Fans have voiced frustration, labeling him "overrated" and questioning the investment, especially after moving fan favourite Florentino to Burnley before the window closed.
Adaptation from Brazilian to Portuguese football, coupled with high pressure, has evidently stifled his flair. Benfica must prioritize patience and strategy. Grant him consistent starts in a central midfield role where he thrived at Palmeiras and allow more attacking freedom rather than focusing on defensive duties.
Newly hired coach Jose Mourinho may need to look at removing Rios from the starting XI and bringing him on as a substitute until he feels that Rios deserves to return to the XI. While off the field, cultural integration programs and confidence boosting sessions could help with strengthening his mental state.
Benfica's investment at this time looks like a bust, but it is only September. We are hoping that Rios shows what made the club decide to spend the record haul on him, let's hope we are not beating the same drum come March
The match, played away, showcased Mourinho's tactical acumen as Benfica dominated from the start. Ukrainian midfielder Georgiy Sudakov opened the scoring with a clinical finish, setting the tone for a comfortable win.
Further goals by strikers Pavlidis and Ivanovic sealed the deal, lifting Benfica's spirits amid a challenging season. Mourinho, ever the showman, reflected post-match with the comment that "25 years haven't changed my nature."
He admitted he hadn't expected the Benfica role, having eyed the Portugal national team job instead. This win isn't just three points; it's a statement. Benfica, under pressure after dismissing Bruno Lage, now has a serial winner at the helm.
Mourinho's return injects charisma and experience into a squad hungry for titles. With his track record at Porto, Chelsea, and beyond, expect fireworks in Lisbon. Could this be the spark for another Mourinho masterclass? Fans are already buzzing that the Special One is back, and Benfica looks revitalized.
The 62-year-old Portuguese tactician replaces Bruno Lage, who was sacked amid a disappointing run of games and an embarrassing home loss to Qarabag in Champions League play.
This marks a poetic return for Mourinho, who began his managerial journey at Benfica back in 2000, albeit briefly before departing after just ten games.
Since leaving Benfica 25 years ago, Mourinho has carved out one of the most illustrious careers in football history. His post Benfica odyssey includes stints at Uniao de Leiria (2001–2002), FC Porto (2002–2004), Chelsea (2004–2007 and 2013–2015), Inter Milan (2008–2010), Real Madrid (2010–2013), Manchester United (2016–2018), Tottenham Hotspur (2019–2021), Roma (2021–2024), and most recently, Fenerbahce (2024–2025), from which he departed in August.
Each chapter added to his legend, transforming clubs into title contenders with his trademark defensive solidity and motivational prowess. Mourinho's trophy cabinet is the stuff of envy, boasting an astonishing 26 major honors.
Highlights include two UEFA Champions League titles (with FC Porto in 2004 and Inter Milan in 2010), three Premier League wins (all with Chelsea), two Serie A crowns (Inter Milan), one La Liga (Real Madrid), and various domestic cups like the FA Cup, Coppa Italia, and Copa del Rey. His European triumphs extend to the UEFA Cup/Europa League (FC Porto 2003, Manchester United 2017) and the inaugural Europa Conference League (Roma 2022).
This haul cements him as one of the greatest managers ever, with a win rate often exceeding 60%. Benfica fans are buzzing with excitement about Mourinho's return and hope that he could reignite their Portuguese League dominance and European ambitions. Facing old foes like Chelsea and Real Madrid in Champions League clashes, adds spice to the appointment.
At his inaugural press conference, Mourinho declared himself "hungrier than ever." Will this homecoming deliver another chapter of glory? Football awaits with bated breath.
This loss not only marked Qarabag's historic first win in the competition's main draw but also spelled the end of Bruno Lage's second stint as Benfica manager.
The match began promisingly for Benfica, who surged to a 2-0 lead early on. However, a catastrophic collapse ensued as Qarabag mounted an improbable comeback, scoring three goals to secure victory. Fans expressed their fury with boos and white handkerchiefs waving in protest, demanding Lage's head.
The defeat highlighted defensive frailties and tactical missteps under Lage, who had returned to Benfica after spells at Wolves and Botafogo, aiming to revive the glory of his first tenure where he clinched the 2018-19 Portuguese League title.
Lage's second spell, however, was marred by inconsistency. Despite high expectations, recent form had been underwhelming and this Champions League humiliation proved the final straw. Benfica's board acted swiftly, announcing his dismissal mere hours after the final whistle.
In his post-match comments, Lage appeared baffled by the team's performance, calling it "not normal." What Lage left out was that he clearly looked like a man out of ideas, with a team that on paper should have run away with this contest.
This sacking leaves Benfica searching for a new manager amid a packed schedule, including domestic league battles and further European fixtures. Fans hope for a quick rebound from this embarrassing loss and one name that is already being heavily linked with a return to Benfica after 25 years is Jose Mourinho.
This tally includes several low-scoring affairs that have fans and analysts alike raising eyebrows, especially with a pivotal UEFA Champions League league phase opener against Qarabag looming on September 16.
The campaign kicked off promisingly with a 1-0 Super Cup victory over rivals Sporting, thanks to a Vangelis Pavlidis goal. However, the Champions League qualifiers exposed vulnerabilities; a goalless draw away to Fenerbahce on August 20, was followed by a gritty 1-0 home win in the return leg, courtesy of a going away gift from Kerem Akturkoglu.
Domestically, narrow 1-0 and 2-1 wins against Amadora and Alverca showed efficiency but lacked flair, while a frustrating 1-1 draw with Santa Clara on Friday after being up a man for almost 60 minutes at home has added to the frustration with the club's performances.
Greek striker Pavlidis has scored three of the thirteen markers but the attack's predictability has been evident, with defenses crowding out their creative outlets and Bruno Lage without answers on the sideline on how to break down the defensive structures.
Enter Qarabag, the Azerbaijani champions who boast a potent counter-attack. At Estadio da Luz, Benfica must rediscover its ruthless edge. A win here is essential for momentum in a revamped Champions League format. Will the Eagles soar, or will the drought deepen? Fans will hold their breath as they wait for answers.
Rios begin as a futsal player, honing his skills before making the move professional football. His journey took him from Colombia to Brazil where he joined Flamengo's youth clubs. He moved to Palmeiras in March 2023 and emerged as a key member of the squad and was recognized as the Brazilian leagues best dribbler in 2023.
Rios is a versatile midfielder capable of playing various roles, primarily as a central or defensive midfielder, with the ability to contribute in attacking positions. His style is shaped by his futsal background, which gives him exceptional dribbling, quick footwork, and agility.
Benfica views RÃos as an “all-action midfielder” to bolster their midfield for domestic and Champions League competitions. However, early performances have drawn mixed reviews from fans, with some labeling him “overrated” due to high expectations from the record-breaking fee.
Critics argue his contributions haven’t yet matched the investment, though his technical attributes suggest potential for growth under Benfica’s coaching. Rios will need some time to adapt to European football but he has the tools to become a stand out in the Portuguese League and beyond.
A versatile right winger or midfielder, Lukebakio is known for his speed, dribbling, finishing and ability to assist. He began his career at Anderlecht’s youth academy, debuted for their first team in 2015, and has since played for clubs like Toulouse, Charleroi, Watford, Fortuna Dusseldorf, Hertha Berlin, Wolfsburg, and Sevilla.
Over 10 seasons, he has 52 goals and 22 assists in 213 top-five league appearances. At Sevilla, he scored 17 goals in 68 matches. Currently recovering from a muscular edema in his right leg, he’s expected to debut for Benfica by mid-to-late September. He has 27 caps for Belgium, including playing in Euro 2024.
Lukebakio is enthusiastic in joining Benfica and had some positive comments about the club’s passionate fanbase, which indicates he’s motivated to make an impact. Tactical adjustments by Benfica’s coach may focus on leveraging his speed and flair to enhance the team’s attacking dynamics as the club looks towards a title winning campaign.
The main candidates for this falls election include incoming President Rui Costa, former club President Luis Filipe Vieira, entrepreneur Joao Noronha Lopes and lawyer Joao Diogo Manteigas
In 2021 Rui Costa was elected the 34th club President replacing Luis Filipe Vieira who was forced to resign his position as he dealt with legal matters. Costa won the election with 84.4% of the popular vote from 40,085 submitted ballots, the most in the history of the club elections.
Luis Filipe Vieira is hoping to return to a role that he held from 2003 to 2021, making him the longest serving club President in history. He was President during major projects like the Estadio da Luz and the Seixal training academy.
Joao Noronha Lopes ran against Vieira in the 2020 election and has re-entered his name for another try at President, he hopes to create a new football model led by Nuno Gomes as Vice President and wants to move the club forward with their use of technology like A.I.
Joao Diogo Manteigas is a sports law attorney and has gained some traction for his clear ideas and willingness to bring debate and has support from a sector of the club's fans. He is the youngest candidate and hopes to give more of voice and power to the club's members and fans.
Other candidates to declare for the October election include Martim Mayer who is running on the slogan "Benfica in the Blood" and Cristovao Carvalho who wants to work on the goal of Benfica once again capturing the European Champions League within 4 to 6 years of his Presidency.
This summer's window, saw a net spend that reflects Benfica's ambition to dominate domestically and compete in the Champions League. The standout signing was Colombian defensive midfielder Richard Rios who arrived from Palmeiras in July 23 for a club record €27 million.
Rios, 25, brings tenacity and vision, addressing gaps in the engine room after last season's inconsistencies. Benfica also acquired Bosnian right-back Amar Dedic, who joined from Red Bull Salzburg for €12 million and the 22 year-old has already impressed at the club.
Argentine Enzo Barrenechea arrived on loan from Aston Villa in July, providing versatile defensive midfield cover for the season. His Premier League experience adds maturity to a young squad. Benfica added Rafa Obrador from Real Madrid, the 21 year old came at a bargain price of only €5 million.
Akturkoglu scored the winner against his new club just days ago to send Benfica to the league phase of the Champions League and Fenerbahce home but the Turkish International had a wish to return to his native home and Benfica granted him that wish today.
His exit leaves a void in Benfica's attacking lineup, prompting an urgent search for a forward replacement to bolster their title challenge under coach Bruno Lage. Benfica announced a key reinforcement yesterday with the arrival of attacking midfielder Heorhii Sudakov from Shakhtar Donetsk on loan and now look to patch up another part of their squad.
Benfica's scouting network have already found a few pieces to the puzzle that could inject pace, creativity and be goal threats. The names that the club have been linked to in the past few days include Levante's Carlos Alvarez, Sevilla's Dodi Lukebakio and Wolfsburg's Mohamed Amoura.
Any of these three wingers will run the club between €20 to €40 million to acquire with Amoura being the gem of the bunch. Benfica could also turn their attention back to their league and search out a pair of Braga wingers in Ricardo Horta and Roger Fernandes to strengthen the squad.
No matter the direction that the squad takes and what player or players arrive, what we know is that the club is weaker today after the Akturkoglu sale and need to urgently fill the hole tomorrow over next week.
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.
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
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 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.
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.
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’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’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.
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.
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.
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.
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!