Benfica ready for crucial Lisbon Derby potential title game

Benfica and Sporting are set to face off on Saturday, in a crucial Lisbon derby at Estadio da Luz, with both teams tied at 78 points atop the Portuguese League standings. With only two games left in the 2024-25 season, this match could effectively decide the Portuguese league title, as it’s one of the tightest races in recent years. 

 
Sporting currently holds the edge due to their 1-0 victory in the reverse fixture in December, giving them a better head-to-head record. Third-placed Porto, 13 points behind, are out of contention.
 
Both teams have been neck-and-neck, with posts on X reflecting the intensity of the race—some fans noting Sporting’s earlier lead of 10-15 points before manager Ruben Amorim’s departure to Manchester United.

Benfica have clawed back, capitalizing on Sporting’s stumbles. The rivalry extends beyond the league, with Benfica defeating Sporting on penalties in the Taca da Liga final in January and the two set to meet again in the Taca de Portugal final on May 25.
 
This derby is a tactical chess match. Benfica’s home advantage and Di Maria’s potential form give them a slight edge, but Sporting’s resilience and Gyokeres’ goal scoring prowess make them dangerous. 

 
Sources suggest a high-stakes, closely contested game, with tiebreaker scenarios adding pressure. A Benfica victory seems likely given their squad depth, but Sporting’s knack for grinding out results can’t be underestimated. The outcome may well hinge on fine margins, potentially extending the title fight to the final day.

Benfica need to make decision on Otamendi and Di Maria

Benfica's success at home and in Europe relies on smart decisions, especially when it comes to players whose contracts are about to end. Right now, they face a big choice about Nico Otamendi and Angel Di Maria. Both players are free agents soon, and how Benfica handles this will change their future.

Nico Otamendi has been a pillar in Benfica’s defense. His experience and leadership as the club's captain are clear on the pitch. Over recent seasons, he’s helped tighten the backline and organize the team’s defense.

Angel Di Maria, on the other hand, is a creative force. His ability to create scoring chances and make key passes has made him a fan favorite. Both players have been vital to Benfica’s success, but they also face questions about fitness and longevity as they get up their in age.

With both players reaching the twilight of their careers anything more then one year contracts would be foolish on the club's part and with Otamendi and Di Maria in no rush to sign new deals as they evaluate the next phase of their careers, Benfica will need to find the right solution that would benefit both the club and players.

Reports do indicate that Benfica is open to negotiating new one-year contracts with both players, who have appeared in a combined 436 games for the club across all competitions. The club particularly values their presence for the Club World Cup this summer, suggesting their experience and leadership are seen as assets for major competitions. 

Benfica have three games to seal the league

The Portuguese League season is winding down and Benfica and Sporting remain level at the top of Portugal's top tier with 75 points a piece with three league games remaining on the schedule.

The league title looks set to come down to next weekend's highly anticipated Lisbon Derby where these two rivals will go head to head in a game that is likely to determine who becomes the 2024-25 Portuguese Champion.

Benfica will host this all important encounter at their classic Estadio da Luz stadium where a sold out crowd is expected to cheer on the home side and provide the club with that extra boost as they look for the all important victory.

Benfica will have to first take on Estoril this weekend away from home before facing Sporting and then will conclude the season against Braga also on the road. Benfica control their own destiny as three victories in their final three games will capture the club's 39th title.