Benfica Rains Goals in France, While Porto Battles to Victory
Benfica delivered a dominating 5-0 performance against Quévert in France, rising to the top of Group B in the Champions League.
Miranda‘s Double Leads Benfica to Victory
Capitalizing on a recent defeat to FC Porto, Benfica entered the match eager to right the ship. Coach Eduard Castro entrusted Pedro Henriques, Nil Roca, Roberto Di Benedetto, Pau Bargalló, and Gonçalo Pinto with starting roles.
Despite Tomás Cardoso starting for Quévert, Benfica’s attack proved too potent. Zé Miranda led the charge, netting a quickfire double in the 21st and 24th minutes. Pau Bargalló (33rd and 45th) and Lucas Ordóñez (36th) added to the scoreline, completing a resounding victory.
This win secures Benfica’s position as leaders of Group B, sharing top spot with Trissino, who defeated Valongo 4-1.Oliveirense sits third with four points after drawing 1-1 with Liceo. Valongo and Quévert remain bottom with no points.
In the upcoming round, Benfica will face a challenge on Italian soil against Trissino on December 5th (8:45 pm), while Oliveirense will host Valongo (9 pm) on the same day.
A Hard-Fought Victory for Porto in France
Following a tense “Clássico” victory over Benfica, FC Porto displayed resilience in securing a tough 3-2 win over Saint-Omer in France.
Coach Ricardo Ares opted for a forceful lineup featuring Xavi Malián, Edu Lamas, Hélder Nunes, Rafa, and Carlo Di Benedetto.
Porto gained an early advantage when Rafa found the net in the 10th minute. The second half saw Di Benedetto extend the lead at the 29th minute, followed by Gonçalo Alves’ strike in the 39th minute. Saint – Omer attempted a comeback with goals from Federico Balmaceda (39th) and Leo Savreux (45th), but ultimately fell short.
This victory places Porto in fourth position within Group A, tied with Barcelona and Reus. Óquei Barcelos and Noia share the top spot with four points after drawing 2-2. Saint-Omer remains winless at the bottom of the group.
In the next round of Group A, FC Porto will travel to Noia on Thursday (8:30 pm). The night before, Barcelos will visit Barcelona (8:30 pm).
Only four teams from both Group A and Group B will progress to the Champions League quarter-finals. Reigning champions Sporting, however, will not be defending their title this year.
What factors contributed to Quévert’s struggles against Benfica’s attack?
## Interview with Football Analyst: Benfica’s Dominating Victory
**Host:** Welcome back to the show. We’re joined today by football analyst, Maria Silva, to discuss Benfica’s impressive 5-0 victory against Quévert in France. Maria, Benfica certainly made a statement tonight. What were your key takeaways from the match?
**Maria Silva:** Absolutely! After their recent loss to Porto, Benfica needed a strong performance, and they delivered in spectacular fashion. This emphatic win sends a clear message that they are serious contenders in Group B.
**Host:** Miranda scored a quickfire double, setting the tone early on. How crucial was his performance?
**Maria Silva:** Absolutely vital. Miranda has been in excellent form, and his two goals within minutes of each other really demoralized Quévert. It gave Benfica a commanding lead and allowed them to control the game.
**Host:** Besides Miranda, we saw Pau Bargalló also contributing with a brace. It seems like Benfica’s attack was firing on all cylinders.
**Maria Silva:** You’re right. This was a real team effort. Benfica’s midfield controlled the tempo, providing Bargalló with ample opportunities. His goals were clinical, and really showcased Benfica’s attacking prowess.
**Host:** Quévert, on the other hand, struggled to find any rhythm. What do you think were the contributing factors to their defeat?
**Maria Silva:** I think Benfica’s high pressing and intensity overwhelmed Quévert. They struggled to keep possession and create any meaningful chances. Benfica’s defense was solid, and really limited Quévert’s attacking options.
**Host:**Looking ahead, with this victory Benfica climbs to the top of Group B. What are their prospects for the rest of the Champions League campaign?
**Maria Silva:** This win is a major confidence booster for Benfica. They’ve shown they can compete with the best. I wouldn’t be surprised if they continued their strong form and go deep in the tournament.
**Host:** A resounding victory indeed. Thank you for your insightful analysis, Maria. We appreciate it.
