How and Where to Watch: Porto vs Benfica on beIN SPORTS

Benfica, under heavy pressure from José Mourinho, face a must-win clash against Porto in the Portuguese Cup—a match that could define their season and will be shown LIVE on beIN SPORTS.

The season has reached a decisive moment for Benfica. With the club trailing badly in the Liga Portugal title race and recently eliminated from the Allianz Cup, José Mourinho’s side needs a statement victory to prevent the campaign from slipping further out of control. That opportunity arrives on Wednesday, away from home, against Porto in the quarterfinals of the Portuguese Cup.

The match will be played at FC Porto’s stadium, traditionally one of the most difficult venues in Portuguese football. Still, Benfica can take some encouragement from earlier this season, when they managed a goalless draw against Porto in league play—one of the few times the Dragões dropped points.

Mourinho Turns Up the Pressure

Following a damaging 3–1 defeat to Braga in the Allianz Cup semifinals, Mourinho made his frustration clear. The loss denied Benfica a potential final against Vitoria de Guimarães and prompted a stern response from the head coach, who ordered his players to remain at the club’s Seixal training complex for several nights.

The message was unmistakable: reflect, reset, and prepare. With Benfica sitting ten points behind Porto in the league standings, the Portuguese Cup now represents the most realistic path to silverware—and a chance to restore belief during Mourinho’s second spell at the club.

Progressing to the semifinals would not only keep trophy hopes alive but also provide a much-needed psychological boost for a squad under increasing scrutiny.

Porto Stand in the Way

The challenge, however, could hardly be tougher. Porto have been the most consistent side in Portugal this season and arrive with confidence, depth, and home-field advantage. Even so, the previous league meeting between these rivals showed that margins can be thin in Clássicos.

Another positive for Benfica is preparation time. Mourinho emphasized that the extended period leading into Wednesday’s match has been used to correct issues—particularly the team’s contrasting performances between first and second halves.

Barcelos (Portugal), 18/10/2025.- FC Porto player Samu celebrates after scoring a goal against Celoricense during their Portugal Cup soccer match held at Cidade de Barcelos Stadium, Portugal, 18 October 2025. EFE/EPA/HUGO DELGADO

With their season hanging in the balance, Benfica know this match is about more than a place in the semifinals. It is a test of character, leadership, and response under pressure—exactly the kind of scenario José Mourinho thrives on.