Benfica move on to fourth round of Taca de Portugal

In a dominant display, Benfica kicked off their Taca de Portugal campaign with a 2-0 victory against Chaves in the third round of the competition.

Greek striker Vangelis Pavlidis stole the show, netting both goals. He opened the scoring in the 8th minute with a clinical finish from close range, capitalizing on a swift counterattack led by Georgiy Sudakov and then made it two at the 79 minute mark.

Chaves, from the second division, struggled to contain Benfica's attacking flair, with Dodi Lukebakio and Joao Rego creating constant threats. Despite some resilient defending from the Chaves backline they could not keep Benfica off the scoresheet.

Benfica will now await to find out their opponents in the fourth round as they will face the victors of Atletico and Felgueiras. 

Benfica ready to enter Taca de Portugal against Chaves

Benfica get set to kick off their participation in this seasons Taca de Portugal competition with a third round game against Chaves on Friday. 

Benfica last played a competitive game on October 5 when they traveled to Porto to take on their league rivals in what turned out to be a scoreless Classico. Benfica are hoping to capture their first Taca de Portugal since 2017 and their 27th trophy title in the competition.

Last season Benfica made their way to their first final since 2021 but lost to cross town rivals Sporting 3-1 in additional extra time. Benfica have lost their last three final appearances, one each to Sporting, FC Porto and Braga.

Who is new Benfica midfielder Georgiy Sudakov

Georgiy Sudakov, the 23-year-old Ukrainian attacking midfielder, has quickly become one of Europe's most exciting talents. Born on September 1, 2002, Sudakov's blend of vision, dribbling, and goal-scoring prowess has drawn comparisons to top playmakers. This summer, on August 30, 2025, he made a high-profile move from Shakhtar Donetsk to Benfica on a loan deal with an obligation to buy. 

The transfer includes a €6.75 million loan fee, €20.25 million for the permanent switch and up to €5 million in add-ons, potentially totaling €32 million, which would become a record signing for Benfica, while Shakhtar would retain 25% of his rights towards a future sale.

Sudakov's career began in Ukraine's youth systems, joining Sokil Brianka (2013–2014) and Metalist Kharkiv (2014–2017) before entering Shakhtar's academy in 2017.

He debuted for Shakhtar's senior team in 2020 and had amassed 148 appearances across all competitions, scoring 35 goals while providing 26 helpers.

Since joining Benfica, Sudakov has hit the ground running, scoring 2 goals in 5 league games and totaling 7 appearances with 2 goals and an assist up to this months international break.

His arrival bolsters Benfica's attack, especially after a challenging start to the season. Fans are buzzing about his potential to shine in the Portuguese League and Europe. With Ukraine's national team duties adding to his profile, Sudakov's Benfica chapter should provide fireworks as he looks to grow his pedigree.