Benfica's ambitious push as they look to strive the rest of the season

As we kick off 2026, Benfica finds itself in a fierce multi-front battle, chasing glory in the Portuguese League, Taca de Portugal, Taca da Liga, and they are still alive in the Champions League. Currently sitting third in the league with 18 games to play and trailing leaders FC Porto and second place Sporting, the Eagles' primary goal is a simple one and that is to mount a relentless comeback in the second half of the season. 

In the Taca de Portugal, Benfica has stormed through early rounds with three convincing wins, aiming for a deep run as they look to lift the cup in May. The Taca da Liga sees them off to a strong start, defeating Tondela 3-0, with the semifinals next on the agenda later this month.  

Europe beckons too as they look to progress from the Champions League, league phase to the knockouts and after a poor start, the club has won two games in a row and hope to build on their solid domestic form to power them through the two final games.

With squad depth and fan support, Benfica's second-half mantra is to dominate every pitch, secure silverware and etch another chapter into their storied legacy. The hunt is on in 2026, will the Eagles soar? Tune in to find out. 

 

Benfica land Amadora wing back Sidny Cabral

Benfica landed their first signing of the winter transfer bringing in wing back Sidny Cabral from their city rivals Amadora. Benfica sent €6 million to Amadora for 90% of Cabral's rights along with a potential €2.5 million that could be paid if incentives are met. Benfica signed Cabral for four and half seasons and added a €60 million buy clause to the contract.

The 23 year old Cape Verde international is a multi position player and has already appeared as a right back, left back, left midfielder and right midfielder this season for Amadora. Cabral is both footed and manager Jose Mourinho will be excited to be able to take advantage of his versatility.

Cabral has scored five goals and provided three assists in sixteen games of action across all competitions for Amadora after joining the club as free agent this past summer from German third division side Vikoria Koln. He spent his youth in the Netherlands with Twente and Feyenoord and the move to Benfica is his biggest yet. 

Benfica may have a solution at striker at Rio Ave

As the winter transfer window gets set to open, Benfica under Jose Mourinho is reportedly looking to add another striker and a bold move might just be an acquisition of Rio Ave striker Clayton. 

The 26 year old Brazilian has been a revelation in the Portuguese League this 2025-26 season, netting 10 goals and providing 2 assists in 15 appearances (1,236 minutes). His expected goals stands at 6.1, showcasing clinical finishing, while his progressive carries (1.66 per 90) highlight his dynamic threat when on the field.

With Vangelis Pavlidis leading the line at the club while boasting 14 goals in 15 league games, Benfica needs some more reliable depth as current backups Franjo Ivanovic (3 goals in 13 games, 528 minutes) and Henrique Araujo (0 goals in 5 games, 23 minutes) have struggled to make an impact when called upon.

Clayton's proven scoring record of 24 goals over what amounts to a season and a half at Rio Ave, offers Mourinho a more goal-hungry option off the bench. His physicality and take on ability could complement Pavlidis perfectly, adding versatility to challenge for titles.

If sealed, this transfer could ignite Benfica's campaign, blending Mourinho's tactical nous with Clayton's firepower. It is unknown what the move may cost Benfica but €10M is the likely start point of any negotiations.