Champions League
No more chance of reaching the round of 16: Benfica loses again
Roger Schmidt no longer has a chance of reaching the round of 16 with Benfica. photo
© Spada/LaPresse via ZUMA Press/dpa
Coach Roger Schmidt and Benfica Lisbon no longer have a chance of making it to the knockout round of the Champions League after a desolate performance.
Coach Roger Schmidt and After a desolate performance, Benfica Lisbon no longer have a chance of reaching the knockout rounds of the Champions League.
The Portuguese football champions also lost their fourth group game 1:3 (0:3) at Real Sociedad San Sebastián. Former Dortmund player Mikel Merino (6th minute), Mikel Oyarzabal (11th) and Ander Barrenetxea (21st) made the decision before the break. During their puzzling appearance, Benfica was even lucky not to fall further behind because Brais Méndez (29′) shot a penalty kick onto the post.
After the break, Schmidt’s team at least improved a bit. Rafa Silva (49th) managed to score quickly, but it wasn’t enough for the quarter-finalists from last season. Rafa’s goal was the first for Benfica this premier class season.
After four games, Benfica still has zero points and no chance of securing one of the top two places in Group D. The pressure on Schmidt continues to increase ahead of the landmark derby against league leaders Sporting Lisbon on Sunday.