Benfica vs Alverca: Primeira Liga Match Preview and Insights

Introduction

Following a triumphant midweek in the UEFA Champions League, Benfica travel to face newly promoted Alverca in Sunday’s Primeira Liga matchday four clash. The Eagles, fresh from securing a spot in Europe’s elite competition, aim to maintain their unbeaten streak against a side still finding their feet in the top flight.

Benfica’s Stellar Form

Benfica’s flawless start to the 2025-26 season continues, with seven competitive matches yielding six victories and no goals conceded. Their latest success, a 1-0 aggregate win over Fenerbahce sealed by Kerem Akturkoglu’s 39th-minute strike, ensured a fifth consecutive Champions League campaign. Drawn against formidable opponents like Real Madrid, Chelsea, and Juventus, Benfica’s European journey promises excitement.

Domestically, the Eagles have been equally impressive. A 1-0 victory over Estrela and a commanding 3-0 win against Tondela have earned them six points from two matches, placing them sixth in the Primeira Liga standings. Despite a postponed opener against Rio Ave, Benfica are poised to climb higher as they chase the title, having finished behind Sporting Lisbon in the last two seasons.

Alverca’s Top-Flight Return

Alverca, back in the Primeira Liga after over 20 years, secured promotion as Liga 2 runners-up in 2024-25. Their campaign has been challenging, with a single point from three matches—a 2-2 draw at Estrela Amadora where they let a two-goal lead slip. Sitting 14th with three goals scored and seven conceded, Custodio Castro’s side face a tough test against Benfica.

The hosts have struggled historically against the Eagles, losing their last four encounters, including a 3-0 defeat in 2003. However, Alverca’s solid home form, with just one loss in their last 13 competitive home games, offers a glimmer of hope, despite a 3-0 loss to Braga in their only top-flight home fixture this season.

Team News and Lineups

Alverca will miss goalkeeper Andre Gomes, ineligible against his parent club, with Matheus Mendes set to debut in goal. Kaiky Naves’ suspension sees Julan Martínez likely stepping into the back three. Marko Milovanovic, with two goals this season, will lead the attack.

For Benfica, Tomas Araujo and Anatoliy Trubin are expected to return to the starting lineup. Vangelis Pavlidis will likely spearhead the attack, possibly alongside Franjo Ivanovic. Injuries keep Bruma, Manu Silva, and Alexander Bah sidelined.

Head-to-Head and Key Battles

Benfica have dominated recent meetings, with Alverca failing to score in their last two clashes. The Eagles’ defensive solidity—yet to concede this season—will test Alverca’s attack, particularly Milovanovic’s ability to exploit any rare openings. Benfica’s midfield control and attacking flair, led by Akturkoglu and Pavlidis, could prove decisive.

Match Prediction

Benfica’s unbeaten run and superior quality make them heavy favorites. Alverca’s resilience at home may keep the scoreline respectable, but the Eagles’ firepower should secure a comfortable victory. Predicted Score: Alverca 0-2 Benfica.

Why This Match Matters

For Benfica, this is a chance to maintain momentum and close the gap on league leaders. For Alverca, a positive result against a giant like Benfica could boost confidence in their survival bid. Fans can expect an intriguing clash as the Eagles aim to soar and Alverca fight to prove their top-flight credentials.