On Halloween night, Benfica put on a new mask, won and took an important step towards the Final Four of the League Cup. Magician Di Maria and the contested Arthur Cabral caused mischief in Arouca. Three central defenders, midfielders (Neves and Orsnes) acting as wingers, and no central striker (Guedes was the original option). This was the (tactical) potion that Schmidt took to Arouca during her competitive debut. With João Mário playing a more central role, the red option ultimately surprised the home side, who were spared only because Di Maria, Guedes and Orsnes had poor aim. However, Benfica gained a (fair) advantage thanks to some Argentine wizardry. Angel’s unstoppable free-kick hit Arukense’s wall, bringing virtually nothing to the attack in the first half. Schmidt brought on the same eleven players for the second half, but quickly brought new blood into the attack with three new players. Arthur Cabral, Tengstedt and Thiago Gouveia brought further joy to an already depleted sector. The Brazilian reassured the team after the Dane’s pass. After a powerful run through the Arouca midfield, he withstood the pressure to score Benfica’s second goal, and his second with the eagle on his chest. After negative results in the Champions League and Champions League, followed by a challenge to Schmidt, Benfica returns to its triumphs now in the League Cup, a competition in which it holds the record (7 cups).