Benfica sack Bruno Lage after horrific Qarabag loss

In a stunning turn of events that has rocked Portuguese football, Benfica has parted ways with manager Bruno Lage following a disastrous 3-2 home defeat to Azerbaijani side Qarabag in their Champions League opener, blowing a two goal advantage.

This loss not only marked Qarabag's historic first win in the competition's main draw but also spelled the end of Bruno Lage's second stint as Benfica manager.

The match began promisingly for Benfica, who surged to a 2-0 lead early on. However, a catastrophic collapse ensued as Qarabag mounted an improbable comeback, scoring three goals to secure victory. Fans expressed their fury with boos and white handkerchiefs waving in protest, demanding Lage's head. 

The defeat highlighted defensive frailties and tactical missteps under Lage, who had returned to Benfica after spells at Wolves and Botafogo, aiming to revive the glory of his first tenure where he clinched the 2018-19 Portuguese League title.

Lage's second spell, however, was marred by inconsistency. Despite high expectations, recent form had been underwhelming and this Champions League humiliation proved the final straw. Benfica's board acted swiftly, announcing his dismissal mere hours after the final whistle.

In his post-match comments, Lage appeared baffled by the team's performance, calling it "not normal." What Lage left out was that he clearly looked like a man out of ideas, with a team that on paper should have run away with this contest.

This sacking leaves Benfica searching for a new manager amid a packed schedule, including domestic league battles and further European fixtures. Fans hope for a quick rebound from this embarrassing loss and one name that is already being heavily linked with a return to Benfica after 25 years is Jose Mourinho.

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.