Marco Silva’s team took control from the start and needed just six minutes to open the scoring. Gianluca Prestianni tested the goalkeeper, who parried his shot, and Leandro Barreiro reacted quickly to the rebound to make it 1-0.
Liga Portugal
(Video): Benfica Thrash Marítimo and Keep the Pressure on Porto
Benfica got the job done in Madeira. The Eagles defeated Marítimo 3-0 at the Estádio do Marítimo, securing three important points to remain in the race at the top of the Liga Portugal table and continue their pursuit of leaders FC Porto.… Show More
Benfica got the job done in Madeira. The Eagles defeated Marítimo 3-0 at the Estádio do Marítimo, securing three important points to remain in the race at the top of the Liga Portugal table and continue their pursuit of leaders FC Porto.
Benfica Set the Tone From the Start
The Eagles continued to dominate possession and found a constant threat in Vangelis Pavlidis. In the 17th minute, the striker came very close to doubling the lead with a powerful long-range effort that struck the post.
Marítimo tried to respond through quick transitions and managed to push forward at times, but they never found the necessary quality to break down the visitors’ defense.
In the second half, the home side enjoyed more possession and began taking greater risks, although that also opened up spaces for Benfica to attack on the counter.
In the 63rd minute, Pavlidis appeared to have scored the second after taking advantage of a defensive mistake, but his goal was ruled out for offside.
Barreiro Completes His Brace and Prestianni Finishes It Off
The decisive blow arrived in the 71st minute following an excellent team move. Prestianni delivered the cross, Pavlidis redirected it into the danger area and Barreiro was completely unmarked to head the ball home and complete his brace.
At 2-0, Benfica were in complete control of the match.
There was still time for Prestianni, one of the best players on the pitch, to get his reward. After playing a part in the first two goals, the Argentine sealed the victory with a low cross-shot that left the Marítimo goalkeeper with no chance.
Checkmate in Madeira. Marítimo 0-3 Benfica, and the Eagles keep up the pace as they continue chasing FC Porto at the top of the Liga Portugal table.
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