Benfica was already up and running on Thursday night at the Paços de Ferreira pitch. Club Brugge's Champions League opponent recorded an easy 0-2 win after goals from Grimaldo and Joao Mario.
The league leaders got an early lead at tail end Paços de Ferreira. After a foul on Guedes, Grimaldo kicked the free kick straight into the bottom corner. A flying start, as a few minutes later Joao Mario doubled the score from close range. The signal for the home side to go on the attack, but apart from a shot on the post by Thomas just before the break, there was no threat to Vlachodimos.
After the coffee the same picture. Benfica with overwhelming ball possession and control, albeit without forcing many chances. The attacking play produced a dozen corner kicks, but Benfica did not get beyond a shot by Otamendi and a header by Silva. The home side tried to snatch a connecting goal, but Thomas' attempt was again stranded on the goalpost. With this easy win, Benfica extended its lead over first pursuer Braga to seven points for the time being. (KV)
Benfica: Vlachodimos, Grimaldo, Otamendi, Silva, Bah, Fernandez, Luis (74' Chiquinho), Aursnes, Guedes (74' Draxler), Joao Mario (89' Neres), Ramos (58' Musa).
Goals: 7' Grimaldo (0-1), 11' Joao Mario (0-2).
