Benfica beat Sporting 2-1 in Alvalade, in an intense, exciting classic that was decided only in the final moments, with Rafa scoring in stoppage time and guaranteeing a major victory for the Reds, after Morita canceled out in the second half the initial advantage achieved by Schjelderup from a penalty just before the break. In a game marked by VAR decisions, wasted opportunities, moments of tension and constant changes in control of the match, the outcome ended up smiling for José Mourinho’s team, more effective in the decisive moments.
The first half started at a fast pace and with clear signs of the intensity typical of a classic. Sporting had a superb opportunity to open the scoring in the 16th minute, when a penalty was awarded for a foul on Trincão. Called for the conversion, Luis Suárez allowed the red-black goalkeeper to save, wasting a chance that could have changed the course of the match early on.
Benfica’s response was quick and effective. In the 27th minute, Schjelderup didn’t miss the eleven meter mark and put the Eagles ahead, scoring his ninth goal of the season and giving greater peace of mind to the visiting team at a stage in which the game became increasingly physical and fragmented.
Until half-time, interruptions and intense duels in midfield multiplied. Morita was particularly involved in this chapter, while Hjulmand received a yellow card for protests after a foul on Prestianni. Sporting tried to react, but found it difficult to overcome Benfica’s defensive organization. Even so, Pote tried a dangerous shot in the frontal area and Trincão managed to fit in at the edge of the area, slipping at the decisive moment of the shot.
On the red and black side, the strategy mainly involved exploring quick transitions, taking advantage of the spaces provided by the Leonine attempt to take over the game. Close to halftime, the visitors also complained about a penalty against Ivanovic, in a move that generated a dispute. In the four minutes of added time, the score remained unchanged.
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