Benfica etched their name in history once again as they clinched their record-extending 38th Portuguese Primeira Liga title in a captivating showdown at the Estadio da Luz in Lisbon,
Benfica left no room for doubt as they overpowered bottom-of-the-table Santa Clara with a resounding 3-0 victory. Goals from Goncalo Ramos, Rafa Silva, and Alejandro Grimaldo propelled the hosts to a well-deserved triumph.
Last season’s champions, Porto, also emerged victorious in their final fixture against Vitoria Guimaraes with a 3-0 scoreline. However, their efforts were in vain, as they needed Benfica to stumble in order to retain the title.
Benfica displayed resilience and determination, bouncing back from a missed opportunity in the previous weekend’s draw against Sporting Lisbon. Their title aspirations hinged on this crucial match, and they seized the moment with unwavering focus.
The opening goal arrived early, with Ramos finding the back of the net from close range after just seven minutes. This breakthrough set the tone for Benfica’s dominance throughout the match.
Silva extended the lead with a clinical finish, capitalizing on a swift counterattack orchestrated by Joao Mario. His shot took a deflection, but the result was the same an emphatic goal that brought Benfica another step closer to glory.
In an emotional turn of events, Grimaldo sealed the victory from the penalty spot in what would be his final appearance for the club.
The former Barcelona defender bid farewell to Benfica in style before embarking on a new chapter with Bayer Leverkusen.
Despite the departure of midfielder Enzo Fernandez to Chelsea in January, following his remarkable World Cup campaign with Argentina, Benfica showcased their strength and resilience throughout the season.
Their success extended beyond domestic competitions, as they also reached the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League.
Porto, although victorious in their final match against Guimaraes with goals from Mehdi Taremi, Otavio, and Evanilson, fell just short of retaining the title. They finished two points adrift of the new champions, Benfica, in a closely contested race.
Benfica’s triumph marks a moment of celebration for the club and their passionate supporters, who have witnessed their team’s remarkable consistency and dominance over the years.
As they bask in the glory of their 38th Primeira Liga title, Benfica’s legacy as a powerhouse in Portuguese football continues to grow.
