Benfica title hopes on life support

The Classico at Estadio da Luz this past weekend ended in a pulsating 2-2 draw, keeping Benfica's unbeaten streak intact at 25 matches but a needed victory against league leaders FC Porto failed to materialize the result that was needed to bring the title race to within four points.

With just nine league games remaining, Benfica are still mathematically in the race but their chance of capturing the Portuguese League crown is now on life support as the club will need some help if they are to leap over two clubs before the end of this campaign.

Realistically, Benfica must win out and hope their rivals falter, the draw preserved the campaign but the club will need many things to go their way, including a crucial away clash against Sporting who currently sit in second, three points ahead of the Eagles. The fans have faith but their persistence will be tested in the final games of the season.