Classico ends the same way it begins at the Dragao

In a tense O Classico at Estadio do Dragao, Benfica and FC Porto battled to a goalless draw on the eve of the international break, with Porto's seven game league winning streak being halted by their former manager Jose Mourinho.

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.