Benfica is set to face Casa Pia on Monday as they aim to maintain their momentum in the Primeira Liga. After winning six of their last seven league matches, Benfica seeks to capitalize on this form. Casa Pia, meanwhile, is struggling, having failed to win in their last four games (D2, L2).
Match Preview: Casa Pia vs Benfica
Benfica’s recent performances have placed them third in the Primeira Liga, trailing the leaders Porto by seven points. Last week, Porto faces Famalicao, which may alter Benfica’s standing before they take the field. Sporting Lisbon’s victory over Santa Clara added pressure, leaving Benfica three points behind their city rivals.
Benfica last secured a 3-0 victory against Vitoria de Guimaraes, marking their unbeaten streak at 42 league matches (W30, D12). The team remains the only one without a loss in the league this season and has scored at least two goals in their last four matches.
Casa Pia’s Recent Struggles
Casa Pia aims to break its winless streak, as they currently sit in the relegation playoff spot, just one point from safety. They have shown potential by previously ending Porto’s unbeaten run in the league. However, they were recently defeated 4-0 by Estrela Amadora, struggling to find the net in three of their last four matches.
Interestingly, Casa Pia’s last three defeats have occurred while trailing at half-time, emphasizing their need for a strong start. They are currently unbeaten in their last five home games at Estadio Pina Manique, with two wins and three draws. In recent meetings with Benfica, Casa Pia secured a 3-1 victory and a 2-2 draw earlier this season.
- Casa Pia Primeira Liga Form: D2, L2
- Benfica Primeira Liga Form: W6, L1
Team News
Casa Pia will miss Kiki Silva due to injury and may be without Lawrence Ofori, who has missed the last three matches. Captain Jose Fonte recently returned and could start. Veteran striker Cassiano aims to regain his scoring form after two appearances without a goal.
On the Benfica side, several players are sidelined, including Bruma, Nuno Felix, and Joao Veloso, while Fredrik Aursnes is still recovering from an injury. Leandro Barreiro may undergo a late fitness test due to physical discomfort after international duty.
Projected Lineups
| Casa Pia | Benfica |
|---|---|
| Sequeira | Trubin |
| Goulart, Fonte, Geraldes | Bah, Araujo, Otamendi, Dahl |
| Larrazabal, Perez, Brito, Conte | Rios, Barrenechea |
| Livolant, Cassiano, Livramento | Prestianni, Rafa Silva, Schjelderup, Pavlidis |
Prediction
In this matchup, despite Casa Pia’s decent home form, Benfica enters as the favorites. The expectation is for a close contest, with both teams likely finding the net. A predicted scoreline is Casa Pia 1 – 2 Benfica, keeping Benfica’s title hopes alive.
