Team News
Enzo Pérez is unsure to be available this weekend, after Jorge Jesus’ announced André Gomes to be tested in the League matches before he probably starts in the next Champions League match, as Matic is suspended. Cardozo might be facing a comeback in the starting eleven. Carlos Martins, Aimar and Nolito are injured and won’t be available too.
In Gil Vicente, Brito is having troubles recovering, while Ramazotti might be coming back to Paulo Alves’ call up list. César Peixoto might be starting in a team that will present some changes, with a stronger midfield built.
Analysis
After losing in their Champions League match against Spartak Moscow, Benfica needs to comeback with a victory. Lima became the reference on the offensive side, scoring in Moscow and making a strong point about his place in the starting eleven. Jesus might bet in Cardozo up front, while keeping the same four on defense, as the team has good numbers in the Portuguese League, showing less fragilities than in Champions League games.
Gil Vicente’s experienced team is making a great League start, currently in 4th place. Adriano, the goalkeeper, is the main figure in a team that has also in Claudio, the center back, other of their best players. After conquering a great tie last season, Gil Vicente wants to keep their home ground as one of the hardest to win on this competition.
Head-to-Head – Last five meetings
April 14th 2012: Benfica 2-1 Gil Vicente
January 22nd 2012: Benfica 3-1 Gil Vicente
August 12th 2011: Gil Vicente 2-2 Benfica
January 20th 2006: Gil Vicente 1-3 Benfica
August 27th 2005: Benfica 0-2 Gil Vicente
Facts
• Gil Vicente lost only one match in the Portuguese League this season, away, when they lost 1-2 to Sporting.
• Last season, Gil Vicente was unbeaten at home against FC Porto, Benfica and Sporting.
• Benfica has two players in the Best Scorers top 3, with Rodrigo and Cardozo scoring 4 goals each.
Prediction
Benfica can’t lose this match, having to keep their place at the League top with FC Porto. Gil Vicente will be a difficult match up, but Lima can solve things for the Reds.
Gil Vicente 1-2 Benfica
