Benfica's goal drought a concern ahead of Qarabag game

As the 2025-26 season unfolds, Benfica finds itself grappling with an uncharacteristic struggle to find the back of the net. Despite a solid defensive record, the Eagles have managed just 13 goals across nine competitive matches, averaging a modest 1.44 per game. 

This tally includes several low-scoring affairs that have fans and analysts alike raising eyebrows, especially with a pivotal UEFA Champions League league phase opener against Qarabag looming on September 16.

The campaign kicked off promisingly with a 1-0 Super Cup victory over rivals Sporting, thanks to a Vangelis Pavlidis goal. However, the Champions League qualifiers exposed vulnerabilities; a goalless draw away to Fenerbahce on August 20, was followed by a gritty 1-0 home win in the return leg, courtesy of a going away gift from Kerem Akturkoglu. 

Domestically, narrow 1-0 and 2-1 wins against Amadora and Alverca showed efficiency but lacked flair, while a frustrating 1-1 draw with Santa Clara on Friday after being up a man for almost 60 minutes at home has added to the frustration with the club's performances.

Greek striker Pavlidis has scored three of the thirteen markers but the attack's predictability has been evident, with defenses crowding out their creative outlets and Bruno Lage without answers on the sideline on how to break down the defensive structures.

Enter Qarabag, the Azerbaijani champions who boast a potent counter-attack. At Estadio da Luz, Benfica must rediscover its ruthless edge. A win here is essential for momentum in a revamped Champions League format. Will the Eagles soar, or will the drought deepen? Fans will hold their breath as they wait for answers.

Who is new Benfica midfielder Richard Rios

Richard Rios is a 25 year old Colombian international midfielder who joined Benfica this summer from Brazilian side Palmeiras on July 22 for a club record €27 million. He signed a contract with Benfica until the summer of 2030 with a €100 million buy clause.

Rios begin as a futsal player, honing his skills before making the move professional football. His journey took him from Colombia to Brazil where he joined Flamengo's youth clubs. He moved to Palmeiras in March 2023 and emerged as a key member of the squad and was recognized as the Brazilian leagues best dribbler in 2023.

Rios is a versatile midfielder capable of playing various roles, primarily as a central or defensive midfielder, with the ability to contribute in attacking positions. His style is shaped by his futsal background, which gives him exceptional dribbling, quick footwork, and agility.

Benfica views Ríos as an “all-action midfielder” to bolster their midfield for domestic and Champions League competitions. However, early performances have drawn mixed reviews from fans, with some labeling him “overrated” due to high expectations from the record-breaking fee.

Critics argue his contributions haven’t yet matched the investment, though his technical attributes suggest potential for growth under Benfica’s coaching. Rios will need some time to adapt to European football but he has the tools to become a stand out in the Portuguese League and beyond.
 

Who is new Benfica winger Dodi Lukebakio

Dodi Lukebakio is a 27-year-old Belgian international forward who recently joined Benfica from Sevilla on September 1, 2025, in a deal worth €20 million plus €4 million in performance-based bonuses. He signed a contract until June 2030, with a €50 million release clause.

A versatile right winger or midfielder, Lukebakio is known for his speed, dribbling, finishing and ability to assist. He began his career at Anderlecht’s youth academy, debuted for their first team in 2015, and has since played for clubs like Toulouse, Charleroi, Watford, Fortuna Dusseldorf, Hertha Berlin, Wolfsburg, and Sevilla. 

Over 10 seasons, he has 52 goals and 22 assists in 213 top-five league appearances. At Sevilla, he scored 17 goals in 68 matches. Currently recovering from a muscular edema in his right leg, he’s expected to debut for Benfica by mid-to-late September. He has 27 caps for Belgium, including playing in Euro 2024.

Lukebakio is enthusiastic in joining Benfica and had some positive comments about the club’s passionate fanbase, which indicates he’s motivated to make an impact. Tactical adjustments by Benfica’s coach may focus on leveraging his speed and flair to enhance the team’s attacking dynamics as the club looks towards a title winning campaign.