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Benfica seeks league redemption after cup exit
17 Jan
Summary
- Benfica aims to rebound after cup exit, focusing on unbeaten league run.
- Rio Ave seeks their first win against Benfica in 17 meetings.
- Benfica is one of two unbeaten sides in the league with 39 points.
The Portuguese Primeira Liga resumes this Saturday with a crucial fixture between Rio Ave and Benfica at the Estadio dos Arcos. Benfica enters this match reeling from a 1-0 defeat to Porto in the quarter-finals of the Taca de Portugal on Wednesday, marking their second consecutive cup exit. Earlier in January, they also fell in the Taca da Liga semi-finals.
Despite their cup woes, Benfica boasts an impressive unbeaten streak in the league, having secured 11 wins and six draws from 17 matches. They have accumulated 39 points, placing them third and 10 points behind league leaders Porto. This strong league form contrasts with Rio Ave's recent performances, which include three losses in their last four outings to close out 2025.
Historically, Benfica holds a significant advantage over Rio Ave, winning 35 of their last 47 meetings. Notably, As Aguias have remained undefeated against Rio Ave since December 2017. Rio Ave, currently 10th in the league, has managed only two wins in their last nine home Primeira Liga games.
