Benfica is set to defend their Taca da Liga title against Braga at the Estadio Dr. Magalhaes Pessoa on Wednesday. This semi-final clash comes just a year after Benfica secured a 3-0 victory over Braga at the same stage, ultimately leading to their historic eighth League Cup title.
Match Preview
This match presents a familiar challenge for Benfica as they aim to replicate last year’s success. After a tumultuous 2024-25 season, where they finished behind Sporting Lisbon in both the Primeira Liga and Taca de Portugal, Benfica redeemed themselves early in the current campaign by winning the Super Cup.
The Reds are looking to add another trophy in the ongoing 2025-26 season, with the Taca da Liga final slated for January 10. However, they face a demanding schedule and a depleted squad. Wins against Braga and a potential final against either Sporting or Vitoria de Guimaraes could pave the way for further success. Additionally, they will clash with Porto in the Portuguese Cup quarter-finals just days after the Taca da Liga encounter.
Benfica’s Recent Form
- Benfica is on a commendable run, having gone 22 domestic matches without defeat.
- They have secured 16 victories during this stretch, including a 3-0 win over Tondela in the quarter-finals of the Taca da Liga.
- Their latest match ended in a 3-1 victory against Estoril Praia, featuring a hat-trick from Vangelis Pavlidis.
Braga’s Performance and Challenges
Braga, on the other hand, experienced a disappointing start to 2026. Recently, they threw away a two-goal lead, resulting in a 3-3 draw against Estrela Amadora, leaving them fifth in the league standings, just one point shy of the top four.
Despite not winning their last two matches, including a draw against Benfica, they will look to regain confidence. Notably, their only recent victory came from a 3-0 win against Caldas in the Taca de Portugal. Historically, Braga has struggled against Benfica, failing to win in their last four encounters.
Team News
Benfica
- Benfica faces several injury challenges. Enzo Barrenechea and Antonio Silva are the latest absentees.
- Right-back Alexander Bah continues to recover from a long-term knee injury.
- Winger Bruma and midfielder Nuno Felix remain sidelined, while goalkeeper Samuel Soares has a muscle injury.
Braga
- Braga’s new signing Samy Merheg is uncertain for the match due to registration issues.
- Key player Amine El Ouazzani is out with a metatarsal injury, and several others are also expected to miss the game.
- Team captain Ricardo Horta returns after suspension, providing a boost to the squad.
Possible Lineups
| Benfica | Braga |
|---|---|
| Trubin | Hornicek |
| Dedic | Gomez |
| T Araujo | V Carvalho |
| Otamendi | Arrey-Mbi |
| Dahl | Lelo |
| Rios | Gorby |
| Aursnes | Dorgeles |
| Sudakov | Moutinho |
| Barreiro | Horta |
| Prestianni | Zalazar |
| Pavlidis | Navarro |
As Benfica prepares for this crucial encounter, they hold the momentum. The match will undoubtedly test both teams as they navigate a challenging season ahead, with Braga hoping for an upset after a difficult run against the Eagles. Fans can expect an intense battle filled with competitive spirit.
