Roger Schmidt feeling the heat at Benfica

Roger Schmidt could not have had a worse past week on the Benfica sidelines, falling to both of the club's bitter rivals. Benfica lost the first leg to Sporting in the Taca de Portugal semi-final 2-1 midweek, before traveling to take on FC Porto in a league game, where they were handily outplayed in a 5-0 thumping in the always intense O Classico.

Making matters worse, Schmidt did not feel that he needed to apologize to the club's fans for the pathetic display by the club against FC Porto. The loss cost the club the top spot in the league. What has been very infuriating to fans is Schmidt's constant insistence on playing players out of position, especially in the right back and left back spots.

Benfica are in the process of preparing for this weeks Europa League first leg at the Estadio da Luz against Scottish club Rangers in what could turn into a very hostile environment for the club if the Rangers score first. There is no doubt that fans will enter the stadium with their white handkerchiefs, with many wanting the head of the German manager on a platter.

Benfica President Rui Costa knows the heat is on his club and he may have no choice but to part ways with Schmidt after signing him to a two year extension prematurely, half way through last season. Benfica fans are not only expecting a victory on Thursday, but a convincing win, as a Benfica exit in the Europa League could prove fatal to Schmidt and his time at the club.

Benfica land first reinforcement for next season

Benfica have made their first signing for next season and it did not cost them a cent in transfer fees, as according to reports out of Portugal, the club have put pen to paper with the acquisition of Mainz midfielder Leonardo Barreiro.

The midfielder went through medical examinations in Germany and it is being reported that the contract he and the club signed will be for five seasons. The 24 year old is a Luxembourg international and has been with Mainz since the summer of 2017.

Barreiro should fit nicely into Roger Schmidt's system, as he is considered a box to box midfielder with a strong tactical culture. Barreiro has appeared in 142 games for Mainz across all competitions, scoring nine goals while setting up eleven.

Benfica travel to Dragao to take on FC Porto in O Classico

The rivalry between Benfica and FC Porto is one of the most intense in Portuguese football, with matches between the two teams always highly anticipated. This weekend, Benfica will travel to the Estadio do Dragao on Sunday to face their arch-rivals in a crucial league game.

Known as O Classico, this match is not just about three points, but also about pride and bragging rights. Both teams have a long history of success and passionate fan bases, making every encounter between them a spectacle no matter where they are in the standings.

Benfica will be looking to secure a victory on Porto's home turf to remain atop the league. However, FC Porto will be determined to defend their fortress and close the gap on top spot, while maintaining their hold on third spot.

As the players take to the field, emotions will run high and every moment will be filled with tension and excitement. The outcome of this match could have far-reaching implications for both teams' seasons. It promises to be a thrilling clash that fans won't want to miss.