Benfica two wins away from title after crucial victory

Benfica are inching closer to yet another title after a crucial victory yesterday over Braga 1-0. The match was closer on the scoreboard then it was in actual play as Benfica dominated long stretches of the game but were unable to capitalize with goals.

The win puts Benfica seven points clear at the top of the table with a game in hand over closest rivals FC Porto, with three games remaining for them on the season. Benfica now need just two victories to clinch their 38th league title and further cement their status as one of Portugal's greatest football clubs.

Benfica's final three games are away at Portimonense and Sporting while hosting Santa Clara in the final game of the regular season.

Benfica look to find competition for Vlachodimos this summer

Benfica look set to bring in competition for current starting keeper Odysseas Vlachodimos in the summer months after recently extending the Greek Internationals contract until the summer of 2027. The 29 year old has been a key player for the club since his arrival in 2018, having appeared in 219 games across all competitions to date while keeping 91 clean sheets.

Benfica are hoping to find a younger keeper on the market with some experience who will challenge and support Vlachodimos next season as the club do not want to see a repeat of Vlachodimos appearing in 50 of 51 contests to date as has been the case this season. Benfica of course will see what funds are left over from their summer shopping as the club has more important positions to fill before looking at a backup keeper.

  

Benfica look to Argentina for another midfielder

 

Benfica look set to turn once again to South America nation Argentina in the pursuit of a midfielder, this time the club is said to be interested in Boca Juniors 21 year old Ezequiel Fernandez Carballo.

Benfica's plan is to closely monitor the player's situation as he has yet to break into a regular role this season at Boca after spending last year on loan with Tigre. Fernandez can play both defensive and central midfield and would add depth to a squad currently a thin in the middle of the field. 

Fernandez is signed with Boca until the end of 2025 and his price is said to be currently in the €5M range. Benfica have a history of acquiring talent from the South America continent and hope Fernandez is not an exception to this rule.