Benfica and FC Porto storied rivalry renewed in Taca de Portugal clash

In the thrilling landscape of Portuguese football, few matchups ignite passion like a Benfica vs FC Porto clash. These rivals are set to collide in the Taca de Portugal quarter-finals next month following their round of 16 victories this week.

The game is slated for January 14 at Porto's Dragao stadium, in what promises to be a high stakes encounter as both clubs look to advance to the final four of the competition.

The encounter will add yet another chapter to this fierce rivalry as the clubs are set to clash for the 38th time in the competitions existence. Benfica holds the edge all time with 21 victories to FC Porto's 11 wins, while the clubs have also had 5 draws.

Their meetings often produce some unforgettable moments, from Benfica's 8-2 thrashing in the 1952 final to tense round by round battles. These clashes embody the intensity of "O Classico", blending tactical play with raw emotion. 

The clubs last faced off in the Taca de Portugal during the 2021-22 campaign with FC Porto defeating Benfica 3-0 in the round of 16 on their way to capturing the Taca title that season.

Benfica last captured the Taca de Portugal in 2017 and lead the competition with 26 titles, while FC Porto follow in second with 20 titles and are coming off a three peat of title wins from 2022 to 2024 in the Taca. 

Fans anticipate a tactical masterclass, with Porto's home advantage clashing against Benfica's resilient attack. Whoever prevails, this matchup underscores why the Taca remains a vital part of the Portuguese football landscape, blending history, talent and unyielding rivalry.

Benfica set for Round of 16 Taca de Portugal

Benfica are set to play Farense tomorrow in the Round of 16, Taca de Portugal action, as they look to move into the quarter-final stage. Benfica will face the winner of FC Porto and Famalicao.

Benfica are unbeaten in their past seven games across all competitions and are hoping to extend that streak to eight games in in yet another road game in this seasons competition as the Lisbon club has yet to play a game at the Estadio da Luz.

 

Benfica eyes move to strengthen back line

As the winter transfer window approaches in the coming weeks, Benfica are monitoring Internacional center back Vitao.

The 25 year old defender who's contract runs until the end of 2026 has caught the eye of Benfica, with his solid performances during this past Serie A season. Benfica are not alone in their interest of the Brazilian defender as Flamengo are also said to have their eye on Vitao as well.

Benfica currently have three center backs who represent their core at the position, in Otamendi (37 years old), Antonio Silva (22 years old) and Tomas Araujo (23 years old) and would be looking at Vitao as the fourth member of this group.

With Otamendi's contract set to expire at the end of the season and the emerging growth in the organization of 19 year old center back Goncalo Oliveira. A move for Vitao represents a proactive squad planning move for the club as they look to bolster their squad for next season.