Benfica stumbled this Sunday in Moreira de Conegos and drew (0:0) with Moreirense, which allows them to remain isolated leaders today. But at the end of the day they could be overtaken by Sporting, who host Gil Vicente. And if you win, you will go to the top of the League standings.
Roger Schmidt presented a team that drew with Inter (3-3) after winning 3-0, but we did not see a “very strong” Benfica, as the coach said in the match preview. Vice versa…
It was Moreirense who took control of the game, with their attacking trio of Madson, Andre Luiz and Codisang causing serious problems for the Reds defence. Thanks to direct football and well-organized pressing, the local team easily reached the Trubin zone. Benfica only woke up from Madson’s bomb on the post (12 minutes). The reaction was immediate and Florentino (16′), isolated, headed wide. Moreirense’s fluid football wore down the Reds’ defense and worried the fans. Andre Luiz (28′) also scored but was ruled offside.
In the second half, Roger Schmidt sent off midfielders Florentino and Joao Neves to bring on Cocciu and Chiquinho. He picked up some pace, but it didn’t lead to goals. João Mário did score, but the goal was disallowed due to offside. Credit goes to Moreirense, who never gave up the fight for victory. He looked Benfica eye to eye and won a point.