Benfica stay perfect in Europe with 3-1 win over Lech Poznan

 

Benfica made it four wins from four matches in the Europa League league phase, beating Lech Poznan 3-1 in Lisbon. The victory lifts Marco Silva's side to 12 points, level with Bournemouth and Ferencvaros at the top of the standings, while Lech remain on a single point.

A Fast Start

The hosts needed only six minutes to take the lead in the game. Andreas Schjelderup whipped in a low cross from the left that the visiting keeper failed to hold and Rafa Silva pounced on the rebound to score from close range. With the early goal in hand, Benfica dominated possession and kept Lech pinned back, leaving the Poles to look for chances on the break.

Substitutes Make the Difference 

The game opened up after the hour mark. Gianluca Prestianni was one of three changes in the 62nd minute for Benfica and he needed just five minutes to make his mark, finishing a sharp individual move after a pass from Georgiy Sudakov to make it 2-0 for the home side. Lech though refused to fold. In the 72nd minute, Leo Bengtsson capitalised on a mistake from Enzo Barrenechea to halve the deficit and set up a tense finish at the Luz.

Sudakov Seals It

Benfica restored their cushion with the game winding down. Sudakov raced onto a counter-attack in the 90th minute and finished the game off, adding a goal to his earlier assist and earning a fully deserved man of the match. For Benfica, the result keeps them on course for a top-eight finish and a direct place in the round of 16. For Lech Poznan, who lead the Polish league at home, Europe remains a struggle, with no win in four matches.