In a stunning display of dominance, Benfica triumphed over FC Porto with a resounding 4-1 victory in the 257th edition of O Clássico, held at Estádio do Dragão on Sunday, April 6, 2025. The match not only solidified Benfica's position at the top of the Primeira Liga standings but also marked a critical juncture for Porto and their coach, Martín Anselmi, who has faced mounting pressure following a series of disappointing results.
The match began with an explosive start, as Vangelis Pavlidis scored just 40 seconds into the game, giving Benfica an early lead. Karem Aktürkoglu delivered a precise cross that Pavlidis converted effortlessly, showcasing Benfica's aggressive intent from the outset. The early goal set the tone for the match, leaving Porto scrambling to regain control.
As the first half progressed, Benfica continued to assert their dominance. Pavlidis struck again in the 43rd minute, capitalizing on a defensive lapse by Porto. After intercepting a rebound from a failed clearance, Pavlidis deftly maneuvered around a defender before slotting the ball into the net, extending the lead to 2-0 just before halftime.
Despite Porto's attempts to rally, the second half saw Benfica maintain their momentum. In the 69th minute, Pavlidis completed his hat-trick with a header from an exquisite cross delivered by Ángel Di María, bringing the score to 3-0. This marked Pavlidis's 14th league goal of the season, further cementing his status as one of the league's top scorers.
Porto finally found the back of the net in the 81st minute when Samu Aghegowa scored, reaching a remarkable tally of 22 goals for the season. However, the joy was short-lived for the home fans as Nicolás Otamendi sealed the deal for Benfica with a fourth goal in injury time, finishing the match at 4-1.
With this defeat, Porto now sits 12 points behind Benfica in the league standings, effectively ending their hopes of contending for the title. Anselmi's squad has now recorded three losses under his management, with a record of five wins, four draws, and three losses across 12 matches. The mounting criticism from fans and analysts alike has raised questions about Anselmi's future at the club.
The loss against Benfica was compounded by Porto's earlier elimination from the Europa League at the hands of AS Roma, leaving supporters disillusioned with the team's trajectory this season. Fans expressed their frustration vocally during the match, directing their ire towards Anselmi, who has struggled to replicate the success he enjoyed at Cruz Azul.
In a twist of irony, Cruz Azul, the Mexican club Anselmi left to take the reins at Porto, celebrated the defeat on social media, mocking their former coach with a post that included the colors of Benfica. This reaction underscores the complicated relationship between Anselmi and his former club, especially following Cruz Azul's legal actions against him regarding his abrupt departure.
Cruz Azul has filed a claim with FIFA seeking $5 million in damages due to Anselmi's exit, which they argue breached his contract that was set to run until 2027. The situation adds another layer of complexity to Anselmi's current challenges at Porto, where he is under increasing scrutiny.
Looking ahead, Porto will face Casa Pia next week, a crucial match that could determine their chances of securing a European spot for next season. Meanwhile, Benfica's victory places them in a strong position as they chase their 39th league title, with Sporting CP closely behind in the standings.
The Primeira Liga is heating up, with the title race becoming increasingly competitive. As Porto navigates their current struggles, the upcoming matches will be pivotal in defining their season. Anselmi's future hangs in the balance as fans and analysts alike await to see if he can turn the tide for the Dragons.
As the league progresses, the pressure mounts not only on Anselmi but on the entire Porto squad. With six matches remaining in the season, every point will be crucial as they aim to salvage their campaign and secure a place in European competitions.
In conclusion, Benfica's emphatic win over Porto not only highlights their current form but also raises significant questions about the direction of Porto under Anselmi's leadership. The road ahead is fraught with challenges, and the upcoming fixtures will be critical in determining the fate of both teams as they navigate the final stretch of the season.
