Benfica Women Triumph Over FC Porto in Portuguese Women's Cup Clash

Lisbon, Portugal – May 18, 2026 – SL Benfica Women delivered a commanding performance to defeat FC Porto (W) 2-0 in a high-stakes Portuguese Women's Cup encounter at the Estádio da Luz. The result keeps Benfica's dreams of silverware alive while sending a clear message to their league rivals.

Match Overview

From the opening whistle, Benfica imposed their authority on the game. Playing in front of a passionate home crowd, the Águias controlled possession and created the clearer chances. FC Porto, known for their resilient defensive structure, struggled to cope with Benfica's relentless pressing and fluid attack. The first half saw Benfica break the deadlock after a well-worked corner routine, and they doubled their lead shortly after the interval with a clinical counter-attack.

Key Moments

• 23rd minute: Benfica's captain Ana Catarina scored from a near-post header following a precise cross by Jéssica Silva. The goal came after sustained pressure and gave the home side a deserved lead.
• 48th minute: A swift breakaway saw Cloé Lacasse slot home from the edge of the box, her shot deflecting off a Porto defender past the goalkeeper. The goal effectively sealed the match.
• 68th minute: FC Porto's best chance came when a free-kick from Kika was tipped over the bar by Benfica goalkeeper Catarina Pereira, preserving the clean sheet.

Tactical Story

Benfica manager Filipa Patrão set up her side in a fluid 4-3-3 that overloaded midfield and allowed full-backs to push high. Porto tried to counter with a compact 4-4-2, but Benfica's wingers, especially Lacasse, constantly stretched the defence. The key battle was in midfield, where Benfica's trio of Andreia Faria, Francisca Cardosa, and skipper Catarina dominated possession and dictated the tempo. Porto's inability to maintain composure under pressure led to multiple turnovers in dangerous areas.

Standout Players

• Cloé Lacasse (Benfica): The Canadian international was a constant menace, scoring the second goal and assisting the first with a pinpoint cross.
• Ana Catarina (Benfica): The captain led by example, scoring the opening goal and anchoring the midfield with tireless work rate.
• Catarina Pereira (Benfica): The goalkeeper commanded her area well, making a crucial save at 1-0 and ensuring her side's clean sheet remained intact.

Table and Cup Impact

With this victory, Benfica advance in the Portuguese Women's Cup, keeping alive their hopes of a domestic double. In the league standings, both sides are locked in a tight title race, and this result adds psychological pressure on Porto. For Benfica, back-to-back wins over their northern rivals strengthen their claim as the dominant force in Portuguese women's football this season.

What’s Next?

Both teams now turn their attention back to the Liga BPI. Benfica face a midweek trip to Braga, while Porto host Sporting CP in a crucial derby. With the cup momentum behind them, Benfica will look to carry this form into the league run-in.