Preview: Porto looks to gain the upper hand in this Taça da Liga semifinal
It was not that long ago that Benfica and Porto met at the Estádio do Dragão, but that match was for the Taça de Portugal. A goal from Jackson Martinez gave the hosts an advantage to take to Lisbon, but that was not enough to see them through to the final.
After losing the second leg in an absolutely fantastic match, Porto had to watch their rivals celebrate a 33rd Portuguese League title on Sunday. A reported 500,000 fans lined the streets of Lisbon, celebrating Benfica’s first championship since 2010.
With their place already booked in the Taça de Portugal Final, Benfica and Porto will now go head-to-head in the semifinals of the Taça de Portugal.
Of all three domestic competitions, this would be looked at as the least important, but given how poor the Dragons have been this season, any piece of silverware will help.
Luis Castro’s squad confirmed a place in the top three in their last match, which will put them in the qualifying round of the Champions League next year. That is something Porto is not used to taking part in, but that goes to show how much they have struggled this season.
Not having much else to play for will allow Luis Castro to field his strongest side on Sunday evening.
A one-goal advantage was not enough to see them through in the other cup competition, so that will motivate the Dragons to push on and try for a more comfortable result.
Benfica is coming off a Europa League victory over Juventus on Thursday, which they will have to defend in the second in just four days.
Jorge Jesus’ side was not at full strength due to some injuries, but regardless of who is available, the Portuguese manager is likely to rotate some players, as he has done all season.
He has included Benfica B striker Funes Mori in the squad, and all signs point to Steven Vitoria to get the start in the center of the defense.
Despite their rotation, Benfica have faired quite well this season regardless of who is on the field. A positive result on Sunday gives them hope for a possible presence in the final of this competition, that they have won more than any other Portuguese team.
Where to watch this match - live stream, start time, TV channels, live scores
Watch Porto vs Benfica live on Sunday, April 27:
In Portugal at 18:15 (local time) on: TVI
For all other viewers, please check the Porto vs Benfica match page for full TV listings in your area.
