Last weekend the Portuguese Primeira Liga was abuzz with the Clasico contested between Porto and Benfica. It produced an intense match with an astonishing climax that leaves Porto on the cusp of a third successive championship heading into the final match of the season.
Porto managed to score a winner in stoppage time to beat Benfica 2-1 and move a point ahead of their rivals with just one game remaining. Rodrigo Lima put Europa League finalists Benfica ahead from close range before Silvestre Varela’s deflected effort levelled for Porto. Brazilian Kelvin struck the injury-time winner. They are now the only unbeaten team in the league and are in the driving seat to retain their league title as a win will see that happen. However, they face a tough task of getting a victory as they play third placed Pacos Ferreira who have lost just once at home all season, against Benfica. Porto have won nine of their 14 away matches, drawing five. They have scored an impressive 30 goals in those outings, conceding just nine.
Pacos Ferreira have been the surprise package this season, after finishing in 10th place last campaign. In their last 14 matches they have lost just once, to Benfica. The outsiders retained third position last Saturday with a 1-1 draw at Academica securing a slot in next season’s Champions League qualifying round. The result meant they are certain to finish above fourth-placed Braga who are five points behind after losing 3-1 at home to Nacional. It is a major feat for Pacos who are based in a tiny town north of Porto. ‘The Beavers’, have a small stadium with a capacity of just over 5000 and this is a real David vs Goliath match as they look to put a damper in Porto’s quest for glory by defeating their local rivals.
Porto won the first round fixture 2-0. However, they drew 1-1 here last season. Pacos have conceded just 11 goals in their 14 home matches, scoring 20. Benfica just managed to scrape a 2-1 win at Pacos and it won’t be easy for the defending champions. Pacos are tipped to give a spirited performance and hold their giant foes to a draw.
