Benfica secured a 1-0 victory over Alverca in the 10th round of the league, but the performance left questions about their attacking play and ability to control a match when chances are not coming. Luís Francisco described the side as looking as though it had “taken a nap,” while noting that Alverca remained competitive throughout the game.
The win brought Benfica to within five points of leaders FC Porto, whose victory over Estoril on Saturday had extended their advantage to eight. Benfica also moved four points clear of third-placed Sporting, who beat Casa Pia 2-0.
Alverca made an assertive start, and although Benfica later had more possession and spent more time seeking the opposition goal, Francisco said that control did not translate into dominance or a sense of danger. Alverca came close to taking the lead in the first half when Figueiredo struck the post. The visitors celebrated after the ball crossed the line, but the goal was ruled out for offside by a margin of five centimetres.
Benfica scored shortly after the break. A change involving Prestiani and Chever helped open up the attack, with Chever winning a penalty that Pavlidis converted. It was the striker’s fourth consecutive game scoring for Benfica. The hosts then struggled to build on their lead as Alverca adjusted and continued to threaten.
Francisco said Benfica’s attacking players were largely subdued. Prestiani produced a few dribbles without turning them into clear chances, while Lukebakio had some effective moments but little impact overall. He also pointed to difficulties in Benfica’s passing combinations and described the match as one of the team’s poorest attacking displays of the domestic season.
The centre-backs stood out in a difficult performance, particularly Tomás Araújo, who tried to create openings with long passes and changes of play. Lenglet was praised for his defensive work, while the midfield had little influence going forward. Benfica kept a clean sheet, but Francisco cautioned that the team still allowed Alverca to create danger, including through mistakes in possession.
His main concern was that Benfica appeared unable to manage the game with the ball once their attack lost momentum. He also raised the possibility that the performance reflected fatigue, with more matches ahead during November. For Benfica, he said, the clearest positive was taking all three points. He praised Alverca’s organisation and ability to defend while also moving forward, despite the defeat.
Sources: Observador.