Benfica need help to win Portuguese title

Benfica and Sporting drew 1-1 in a critical Lisbon Derby game yesterday, leaving both teams level with 79 points going into the final matchday of the season next weekend. Trincao opened the scoring for Sporting just four minutes into the contest and Akturkoglu's second half goal assisted by a dazzling solo run by striker Pavlidis gave both teams a point a piece.

Sporting hold the tiebreaker advantage from their head to head record, defeating Benfica 1-0 at home in Week 16, meaning Benfica will need help if they are to win the Portuguese League this season. Benfica's hopes hinge on a win or draw against Braga and a Sporting slip up against Guimaraes as any result that sees both club's tied in points will give the title to Sporting.

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.