In a thrilling Portuguese league clash, Benfica showcased their dominance with a resounding 4-1 victory over rivals FC Porto on Sunday, April 6, 2025. The match, held at the Estádio do Dragão, saw Greek forward Vangelis Pavlidis steal the spotlight by scoring twice, leading the Eagles to a commanding win that solidifies their position in the league standings.
Benfica wasted no time in asserting their control over the game, with Pavlidis finding the back of the net just one minute into the match. The goal came after a well-placed cross from Turkish midfielder Kerem Akturkoglu, and it was confirmed following a brief VAR review, setting the tone for the rest of the contest.
Despite the early setback, Porto struggled to respond effectively as Benfica continued to dictate the pace of the game. Akturkoglu nearly doubled the lead in the 31st minute, but his right-footed shot from the left side of the box struck the right post, leaving the home crowd in suspense.
Benfica's relentless pressure paid off again in the 42nd minute when Pavlidis netted his second goal with a precise right-footed shot from the center of the box. The Greek striker was inches away from completing a hat trick just minutes earlier, hitting the post in the 39th minute after another assist from Akturkoglu.
After the halftime break, Benfica continued their assault, with Pavlidis completing his brace in the 69th minute. This time, he converted a powerful header from a pinpoint cross delivered by Argentine veteran Angel Di Maria, extending the visitors' lead to 3-0.
Porto finally showed signs of life in the 81st minute when Samu Aghehowa pulled one back with a well-placed left-footed shot from the center of the box, momentarily igniting hopes of a comeback among the home fans. However, any dreams of a miraculous turnaround were swiftly extinguished during stoppage time when Nicolas Otamendi headed in Benfica’s fourth goal from close range. The goal came after a well-executed set piece, with Orkun Kokcu providing the assist.
The match also featured a fair share of physical play, resulting in yellow cards for Benfica’s Alvaro Carreras and Porto’s Nehuen Perez, Goncalo Borges, and Martim Fernandes, as both teams battled fiercely for control.
This comprehensive victory not only strengthens Benfica’s standing in the Portuguese league but also leaves Porto with much to ponder as they regroup following this disappointing home defeat. The Eagles have shown they are a force to be reckoned with, especially with players like Pavlidis and Akturkoglu in top form.
Meanwhile, as the season progresses, all eyes will be on Fábio Vieira, who is currently on loan at FC Porto from Arsenal. Vieira's loan spell is set to conclude in the summer of 2025, and his performances have drawn attention, particularly under the guidance of Porto’s new manager, Martin Anselmi.
After struggling to secure a consistent role in Mikel Arteta’s side, Vieira returned to his former club in search of regular first-team football and further development. His adaptation to the tactical demands at Porto has been impressive, leading to accolades from local media. Correio da Manhã recently described him as the most influential player at the club in recent weeks, highlighting his creativity and tactical intelligence.
As Vieira continues to develop, he could make a strong case for reintegration into Arsenal’s squad next season. If he maintains his current level of performance, he may return to the Emirates as a more complete and confident player, ready to fulfill the promise that initially attracted Arsenal to him.
In the world of football, loan spells can serve as crucial tests for players hoping to elevate their careers at their parent clubs. For Vieira, this opportunity at Porto appears to be paying dividends, while Benfica’s recent triumph over Porto exemplifies the fierce competition within the league.
As the season unfolds, fans will be eager to see how both Benfica and Porto respond to this weekend's results. Will Benfica continue their winning streak, or can Porto bounce back from this setback? The excitement of Portuguese football remains palpable as teams vie for supremacy in the league.
