Benfica win in the Azores as they get set for Real Madrid

In a thrilling clash today at the Estadio de Sao Miguel in the Azores, Benfica edged out Santa Clara 2-1 in Week 22 action. Vangelis Pavlidis scored his 20th league goal of the season to open the scoring for Benfica just 16 minutes into the game, Benfica would then get an own goal by Santa Clara defender Paulo Victor before the end of the first half.

Goncalo Paciencia pulled Santa Clara to within one goal just two minutes into the second half but Benfica held firm to earn the victory. The win comes at a crucial time of the season as Benfica get set for a two leg playoff showdown against Real Madrid in the Champions League with the first leg set to take place at the Luz on Tuesday with the second leg taking place at the Bernabeu on the 25th.

Benfica are coming off a 4-2 victory over Real in the final game of the league phase and the club should be buzzing with confidence going into the matchup. Mourinho is hoping to find the right formula as he looks to show that he still has his dominance in Europe's major competition.