Benfica host Fenerbahce in Eusebio Cup

Benfica will host Fenerbahce in the 14th edition of the Eusebio Cup later today at the Estadio da Luz, looking for their third straight victory in the competition. Benfica have faced off against some top clubs in the game that honours club legend Eusebio, with Real Madrid, Arsenal, AC Milan, Inter and Ajax to name a few. Benfica defeated Feyenoord 5-0 in last seasons game that was attended by over 54,000 fans.

Benfica turn to Jupiler Pro Leauge for striker

Benfica is ramping up its efforts to bolster its attacking options, with reports indicating that the Portuguese giants are in advanced talks with Union St. Gilloise to sign Croatian striker Franjo Ivanovic.

The 21-year-old forward is being eyed as the ideal backup for Benfica’s striker, Vangelis Pavlidis, following the imminent departures of Arthur Cabral, Andrea Belotti and Casper Tengstedt. According to multiple sources, including SportTV and Maisfutebol, Benfica is prepared to offer around €20 million for Ivanovic, though Union St. Gilloise is holding firm for a fee closer to €25-€30 million.

The €25-€30 million wanted by Gilloise is a significant jump from the €4 million that they paid to HNK Rijeka last summer for the players acquisition. Ivanovic had a breakout 2024-25 season with Union St. Gilloise, playing a pivotal role in their first Belgian league title in 90 years. The young striker scored an impressive 20 goals and provided 5 assists in 46 appearances across all competitions.

His physical presence, clinical finishing and ability to contribute in big moments, evidenced by his two goals for the Croatian national team in just four caps to date, have also attracted interest from various clubs. 

As Benfica looks to maintain its competitive edge in the Primeira Liga and European competitions, Ivanovic’s versatility and goal-scoring prowess make him a strong candidate to complement Pavlidis. As the two clubs proceed with negotiations fans are eager to see if Rui Costa can finalize the deal for the promising Croatian talent in the coming days. 

Benfica find out Champions League qualifying opponents

Benfica have learned their fate if they are to qualify for this upcoming seasons edition of the Champions League when they where drawn against French side Nice, earlier today in the 3rd qualifying round set to take place next month.

Benfica will travel to France to take on Nice on August 5, 2025, with the return leg at the Estadio da Luz, which will take place on August 12, 2025. The winner of the contest will advance to the playoff where they will face one of Fenerbahce, Feyenoord, Panathinaikos, Rangers, Servette or Viktoria Plzen, for a place in the League Phase of the competition.