Benfica secured a 2-0 victory over Rio Ave at the Estádio do Rio Ave Futebol Clube, thanks to a commanding first-half performance in the Primeira Liga's 18th round. Leandro Barreiro opened the scoring in the 16th minute, capitalizing on a precise assist from Georgiy Sudakov. Just nine minutes later, an unfortunate own goal by Rio Ave's Andreas Ntoi doubled Benfica's lead, setting the tone for the rest of the match.
Benfica's Dominance in the First Half
The opening half saw Benfica assert their dominance with a high pressing game that Rio Ave struggled to cope with. Barreiro's early strike was a testament to their attacking intent, while Ntoi's own goal further compounded the home side's woes. Benfica's control was evident as they maintained 64% possession and registered 23 shots, seven of which were on target, compared to Rio Ave's solitary shot on goal.
Rio Ave's Efforts Fall Short
Despite a spirited attempt to claw back into the game, Rio Ave's efforts were thwarted by a well-organized Benfica defense. A disallowed goal for offside in the 69th minute epitomized their evening of frustration. The home side's lack of cutting edge was evident, with only 36% possession and an expected goals value of just 0.19, highlighting their struggles in the final third.
Key Performances and Tactical Insights
Benfica's midfield maestro, Fredrik Aursnes, was instrumental in controlling the tempo, completing 105 passes with an impressive 96% accuracy. Defensively, Samuel Dahl stood out with nine tackles, ensuring Rio Ave's forwards had little room to maneuver. The tactical setup by Benfica's coach, focusing on quick transitions and high pressing, effectively neutralized Rio Ave's attempts to build momentum.
Looking Ahead
This victory extends Benfica's strong form, having remained unbeaten in their last five matches, including a notable win against Ajax in the Champions League. As they continue to push for the top spots in the league, their tactical discipline and depth in squad will be crucial. Meanwhile, Rio Ave will need to regroup and address their attacking inefficiencies as they prepare for upcoming challenges.
