Farense vs Benfica Match Quiz – Test Your Liga Skills!

Rafa Silva scored the opener in a moment of sharp positioning and clinical finishing. His ability to find space inside the box gave Benfica an early advantage. While Musa and João Mário were active in buildup, it was Silva’s intelligent off-the-ball run and timed finish that broke the deadlock. Rodrigo Pinho did not start. This goal set the tone for Benfica’s attacking dominance in the first half. Analysts praised Silva's anticipation and chemistry with Di María, which was evident throughout the game. Stats confirmed his significant contribution in expected goals (xG) and shot accuracy.

Benfica held the majority of possession throughout the match, with roughly 65% recorded. Their style revolves around structured buildup from the back and recycling play through midfield pivots like Florentino Luís and João Neves. Farense, although pressing in bursts, mostly sat in a mid-block, giving up ball control. The “equal” or “uncalculable” options do not align with the match report or stats from reputable sources. Benfica’s possession-based approach suffocated Farense’s transitions, limiting their chances and reducing attacking threats for large spells of the game. This stat underlined the tactical gap between both teams.

The VAR penalty decision in the second half sparked the most debate online and among pundits. A slight contact in the box led to a check and eventual penalty award for Benfica. While Benfica fans viewed it as justified, others criticized the minimal contact and inconsistency in similar calls. The referee’s reliance on VAR rather than on-field judgment was also questioned. Red cards and offside goals didn’t play as big a role in controversy. This incident reflected the ongoing scrutiny VAR faces in the Portuguese League and its influence on match outcomes.

Benfica utilized a 4-2-3-1 system, focusing on solid defensive pivots and an advanced attacking midfield line. This formation allowed flexibility in buildup and quick overloads in the final third. It helped players like Di María and Rafa Silva operate in half-spaces while giving João Mário a central playmaker role. The 3-5-2 and 4-4-2 systems were not evident based on positioning and movement maps. 5-3-2 would have restricted Benfica’s wide play, which was central to their game. The consistent shape and control in midfield showcased the discipline and planning of Benfica’s tactical unit.

Ángel Di María was the creative engine for Benfica in this match. He led in key passes, progressive passes, and expected assists (xA). His vision, technique, and ability to switch play opened up Farense’s defense multiple times. Florentino Luís and Rafa Silva contributed, but Di María was clearly orchestrating the tempo. Aursnes played deeper and wasn’t involved in final-third creativity. Match statistics show Di María completed the most crosses and cutbacks, proving instrumental in Benfica's sustained threat in the attacking third. His Champions League-level experience was evident in the composure and flair displayed.

After going behind, Farense responded aggressively with a swift counter-attack strategy. Rather than collapsing or retreating, they pushed numbers forward and attempted to exploit spaces left by Benfica’s high line. This approach resulted in a few half-chances and signaled their tactical intent to stay in the game. The reaction showcased their fighting spirit and tactical preparation. Defensive blocks or formation shifts came later, and substitution changes were reactive, not immediate. The counter-attack was a clear shift in mentality and rhythm, forcing Benfica to adjust and briefly lose their shape defensively before regaining control.

The standout stat from post-match discussions was Benfica’s 20+ total shots on goal, illustrating their dominance in creating chances. This aggressive attacking mindset reflected their possession advantage and tactical superiority. Shot maps showed multiple efforts inside and around the penalty area, emphasizing the penetration and fluidity of their offense. Farense, on the other hand, managed very few attempts. Other options like 0 yellow cards or 90% aerial duel wins were either false or minor. Di María’s pass accuracy, while high, wasn’t the headline stat. Shot volume gave a holistic view of Benfica’s offensive execution.

Morato led Benfica in duels won, particularly aerial contests and shoulder challenges. His physical presence and anticipation made him essential during set-pieces and transitional defense. While Otamendi was solid, Morato showed higher engagement numbers. João Neves and Grimaldo had fewer defensive responsibilities in that zone. Morato’s performance balanced Benfica’s backline by allowing fullbacks to push forward while he remained solid in central defense. Data analysis from post-match reports and heat maps confirmed his presence across defensive thirds. His dominance in duels contributed directly to shutting down Farense’s rare counter attempts and aerial threats.

The final score of the match was 3-1 in favor of Benfica. The game saw them take early control, respond to Farense's pressure, and then seal the win with a late goal. This outcome reflected Benfica's tactical superiority and consistent pressure. Farense’s single goal came during a brief momentum swing, but they couldn’t capitalize beyond that. Scorelines like 2-1 or a draw do not reflect the second-half control Benfica displayed. A 3-2 scoreline would suggest a closer affair than reality. The 3-1 win was comprehensive, backed by stats in xG, shot creation, and possession.

Benfica dominated midfield control through intricate possession triangles, especially among their double pivots and central attackers. This allowed them to dictate tempo, rotate play under pressure, and disrupt Farense’s pressing attempts. Pressing triggers and long balls were used situationally but weren’t the foundation. Wide overlaps were secondary to their vertical passing through the central third. The triangles allowed progressive movement and maintained shape, reducing turnovers and enabling positional play. This tactic reflects modern possession systems that prioritize ball retention with dynamic rotations. Match analysis validated this setup as key to their midfield dominance.