(VIDEO) Benfica Draws With Académico de Viseu in Primeira Liga Opener

Both teams delivered an exciting match, while the Red Eagles’ fans showed their unwavering support.

In a thrilling match filled with emotion, Benfica and Académico de Viseu played to a 2-2 draw on Sunday in the opening match of the 2026-27 Portuguese Primeira Liga season.

The match was played behind closed doors. However, that did not stop Red Eagles fans from gathering around the Estádio da Luz, where thousands of supporters cheered for their team despite being unable to enter the stands and having to watch the match on screens.

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Prestianni and Pavlidis Put Benfica Ahead Twice

Marco Silva’s side took the lead in the 10th minute. Gianluca Prestianni played a superb through ball to Vangelis Pavlidis, who controlled it with his chest at the edge of the box before finishing first-time with his left foot to make it 1-0. The Argentine was one of the most dangerous players on the pitch and made his presence felt again in the second half.

Académico found the equalizer in the 55th minute, when Rúben Pereira headed home from a right-sided corner. Just three minutes later, Prestianni restored Benfica’s lead with a brilliant individual effort. He cut in from the left side of the penalty area, beat his marker and curled a low shot into the far corner to make it 2-1 — a stunning goal.

The Viriato Response: Académico Equalize and Their Goalkeeper Saves the Day

The newly promoted side responded in the 67th minute. André Clóvis connected first-time with his right foot inside the box, finishing Robinho’s precise cross from the right to make it 2-2. The result is particularly significant for Académico, who returned to Portugal’s top flight after 37 years.

But if there was one player responsible for Benfica failing to find a third goal, it was Ewerton Ferreira. The Académico goalkeeper came up with crucial saves during Benfica’s strongest spells and kept his team in the game as the Eagles pushed for the win.

The Controversy in the 92nd Minute

The final major chance came in the 90+2nd minute, when Dodi Lukebakio took a free kick from the left. The ball appeared to be heading into the back of the net, but Ewerton intervened on the goal line to keep it out.

The play sparked protests and controversy among Benfica players, who believed the ball had completely crossed the line. However, referee David Silva did not award the goal, leaving the score at 2-2.

As a result, Benfica and Académico de Viseu each picked up one point on the opening matchday. For the Eagles, the draw leaves the bitter feeling of surrendering two leads; for the newly promoted side, the point represents a major confidence boost in their return to the Primeira Liga.

On Matchday 2, Benfica will visit Casa Pia, while Académico will host Santa Clara.