The upcoming quarter-final match of the Taca de Portugal features O Classico, where FC Porto will host SL Benfica at Estadio do Dragao.
Match Background
This match is crucial for both teams, as Porto aims to secure their 21st Taca de Portugal title, while Benfica seeks redemption after previous disappointments. Porto reached this stage following victories over Celoricense, Sintrense, and Famalicao, where they won impressively 4-1 on December 18, 2025. In contrast, Benfica progressed by defeating Chaves, Atletico CP, and Farense.
Porto’s Form and Lineup
Porto is currently on a remarkable run, winning 11 of their last 12 contests across all competitions, with only one loss. They remain atop the Primeira Liga with a six-point lead at the season’s halfway mark. Their home performance has been strong, achieving 12 wins in 14 matches at Estadio do Dragao this season.
- Recent Matches: 11 wins in 12 games
- Current Primeira Liga Position: 1st, 6 points clear
- Home Record: 12 wins in 14 matches
Striker Luuk de Jong is confirmed out due to a knee injury, along with Nehuen Perez and Tomas Perez. Francisco Moura’s participation is uncertain after a recent injury. However, Samu Agehowa and Vangelis Pavlidis are in excellent scoring form for Porto.
Benfica’s Challenges and Strategy
Benfica comes into this match with some challenges of their own. Their head coach, Jose Mourinho, faces the task of lifting team spirits after a semi-final exit in the Taca da Liga. Benfica has won just one of their last three games and currently sits third in the Primeira Liga, trailing Porto by ten points.
- Recent Matches: 1 win in last 3 games
- Current Primeira Liga Position: 3rd, 10 points behind Porto
- Taca de Portugal Historical Context: Eliminated last at this stage in December 2021
Benfica’s away form has been promising, with six wins from their last eight away matches. However, Nicolas Otamendi will miss the game due to suspension, alongside several other injured players.
Projected Lineups
| Porto Possible Starting XI | Benfica Possible Starting XI |
|---|---|
| C Ramos; Fernandes, Kiwior, Bednarek, A Costa; Froholdt, Rosario, Mora; Pepe, Samu, Sainz | Trubin; Dedic, T Araujo, A Silva, Dahl; Rios, M Silva; Sudakov, Barreiro, Aursnes; Pavlidis |
Match Prediction
Given Porto’s strong defensive record—having kept clean sheets in their last three matches—this encounter may be tightly contested. However, the attacking threat of Benfica could create opportunities for them to score. Our prediction favors Porto to edge out Benfica with a 2-1 victory in what promises to be an exciting matchup.
