SL Benfica kicked off their UEFA Champions League (UCL) campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Serbian champions Crvena Zvezda, thanks to goals from Turkish stars Kerem Aktürkoğlu and Orkun Kökçü. The victory marked the first time the Serbian giants have lost at home to the Portuguese opposition, breaking a 40-year record.
First-Half Fireworks
In a throwback to their European Cup clash 40 years ago, Crvena Zvezda welcomed Benfica with a vibrant atmosphere inside the Rajko Mitić Stadium. The game began with a bang, and it took only nine minutes for the Portuguese side to break the deadlock. A deflected cross from Alexander Bah found its way to the far post, where Kerem Aktürkoğlu was lurking to prod home past a stunned Rade Krunić.
Benfica’s early strike stunned the hosts, but Crvena Zvezda responded immediately. Rade Krunić, eager to make amends for his earlier lapse, showed great skill in the box, only to be denied by an alert Anatoliy Trubin. The Serbian side kept pressing, but Benfica would strike again. A free-kick from Orkun Kökçü just outside the box flew past a motionless Omri Glazer to double the visitors’ lead in the 29th minute.
The two-time European champions seemed to be in control, but their plans took a hit when Bah was forced off with an injury and replaced by Issa Kaboré. Despite the setback, Benfica held their ground, maintaining their two-goal lead into the break.
Second-Half Resilience
Crvena Zvezda returned from the break with renewed energy, determined to claw their way back into the match. Timi Max Elšnik’s set pieces were proving to be a thorn in Benfica’s side, with Nasser Djiga narrowly missing an opportunity to convert a dangerous corner. However, the Benfica backline, led by the experienced Nicolás Otamendi, stood firm against the Serbian onslaught.
The second half lacked the intensity of the first, with both sides struggling to create clear-cut chances. Ángel Di María, who had been instrumental in Benfica’s first goal, tried his luck with a speculative effort that sailed over the bar. As the clock ticked, the onus was on Crvena Zvezda to find a way back into the game.
Late Drama
Just when it seemed Benfica would comfortably see out the match, the Serbian champions struck. Cherif Ndiaye’s defensive pass found Felício Milson, who expertly finished from close range to reduce the deficit in the 88th minute. The goal sent the home fans into a frenzy, but it proved to be too little, too late.
Benfica held on for a valuable win, extending their impressive away record in the UCL to just three losses in their last 18 outings. It was a statement victory for Bruno Lage’s men, who are now looking to build on this momentum as they aim for a deep run in the competition.
Promising Signs for Benfica
This victory serves as a significant boost for SL Benfica, showcasing their attacking prowess and defensive resilience. With key players like Kerem Aktürkoğlu and Orkun Kökçü stepping up, the Portuguese giants have shown they can compete at the highest level. As the group stage progresses, they will seek to secure their place in the knockout rounds.
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Conclusion
Benfica’s victory over Crvena Zvezda in their UCL opener is a testament to their quality and ambition. The Turkish duo of Kerem Aktürkoğlu and Orkun Kökçü played pivotal roles in securing the win. At the same time, the Águias defense, led by Nicolás Otamendi, held firm against a spirited Serbian side. As the UCL group stage unfolds, all eyes will be on Benfica to see if they can continue their impressive form and make a deep run in the competition.
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