In a thrilling Matchday 31 showdown of the 2024/2025 Primeira Liga season, Benfica faced off against AVS Futebol SAD at the iconic Estadio do Sport Lisboa e Benfica, also known as Estadio da Luz, on April 27, 2025. With the title race heating up, Benfica entered the match determined to secure a vital win while AVS fought desperately to avoid relegation.
The match kicked off at 1:00 PM ET, and fans in the USA could catch all the action live on Fubo, GolTV, and Fanatiz. The stakes were incredibly high as Benfica and Sporting CP were tied at the top of the league, each with 72 points, but separated only by goal difference. Sporting was set to play Boavista later in the day, making this match even more crucial for Benfica.
Benfica came into this match riding a wave of confidence, having recently blanked Vitoria SC 3-0 in their previous league game. The team had been in formidable form, going unbeaten in their last 14 domestic matches and winning 13 of their 15 home games at Da Luz. On the other hand, AVS was struggling near the bottom of the table, sitting in 16th place with just 24 points, three points above the relegation zone.
The first half saw Benfica dominate, quickly establishing their intent to take control of the match. Tomás Araújo opened the scoring early, putting Benfica ahead with a well-placed shot that left AVS goalkeeper Ochoa with no chance. The home side continued to apply pressure, and it wasn’t long before Pavlidis doubled the lead, showcasing his striking prowess with a powerful finish.
As the first half progressed, Amdouni added to the tally, making it 3-0 before Akturkoglu capped off a sensational first half with a fourth goal. Benfica was truly running rampant, leaving AVS reeling and desperate for answers. The halftime score stood at 4-0, and it was clear that Benfica was on course for a significant victory.
During the break, AVS made several changes, hoping to shift the momentum in their favor. However, the second half saw more of the same as Benfica continued to assert their dominance. The relentless pressure paid off when Belotti, who had come on as a substitute, found the back of the net, sealing a commanding 5-0 victory for the home side.
Bruno Lage, Benfica's head coach, had emphasized the importance of concentration and focus in the lead-up to the match. "First of all, it's maximum concentration on the game. We're entering very important moments of the season, and it's crucial for us to be focused on what we control, which is the game," he stated before the match. His players responded brilliantly, delivering a performance that showcased their attacking prowess and defensive solidity.
For AVS, the defeat was a bitter pill to swallow. Head coach Tiago Margarido had hoped for a turnaround after recent disappointing results, which included two losses and a draw in their previous three matches. The team needed points to escape the relegation zone, but their performance against Benfica highlighted the uphill battle they face.
As the final whistle blew, Benfica celebrated a resounding 5-0 victory, a result that not only bolstered their title hopes but also sent a clear message to their rivals. With the win, Benfica moved momentarily ahead in the title race, putting pressure on Sporting, who were set to play later in the day.
The match statistics reflected Benfica's dominance, with the home side controlling possession and creating numerous scoring opportunities. AVS struggled to find their rhythm, often being forced into defensive positions and failing to capitalize on any chances they created.
Looking ahead, Benfica will hope to maintain this momentum as they continue their pursuit of the Primeira Liga title. Their next match will be crucial as they aim to keep the pressure on Sporting, who remain their closest challengers. Meanwhile, AVS must regroup quickly as they face a critical period in their fight to avoid relegation.
This match showcased the high stakes of the Primeira Liga, where every point matters, and the battle for supremacy is intense. Benfica's emphatic win over AVS serves as a testament to their strength and determination as they chase glory in the Portuguese top flight.
As the season heads into its final weeks, fans can expect more thrilling encounters and dramatic twists in the race for the title and the fight against relegation. The excitement of the Primeira Liga is palpable, and both Benfica and AVS will be looking to make their mark in the coming matches.
