SL Benfica B edged a five-goal thriller against SC Farense in Liga Portugal 2 on 8 November 2026, winning 3-2 after a late goal settled a contest full of attacking intent and defensive vulnerability.

Farense made the perfect start and took the lead in the 11th minute when Rui Cardoso capitalised on a loose ball inside the box and slotted past the goalkeeper. The home crowd responded positively, but Benfica B grew into the game and equalised in the 29th minute through Tiago Faria, whose low strike from the edge of the area found the bottom corner.

Benfica B then took control early in the second half. Diogo Nunes completed a quick counter-attack in the 52nd minute to put the visitors ahead, finishing calmly after being played through on goal. Farense responded well, though, and equalised in the 74th minute when André Pires headed home from a well-delivered corner.

How the match unfolded

With the game poised at 2-2, both sides pushed for a winner. Farense looked the more likely to score for a brief spell, but Benfica B’s younger legs and quick transitions began to tell. The decisive moment came in the 88th minute when Rafael Mendes arrived at the back post to convert a low cross and send the visiting bench into celebration.

Farense threw players forward in stoppage time, but Benfica B defended with enough composure to see out the win. It was a harsh outcome for the home side, who contributed fully to an entertaining match and created enough chances to take at least a point.

Tactical story

Benfica B’s high pressing caused problems throughout, especially in the second half when Farense tried to play out from the back. The visitors won several turnovers in advanced areas and looked dangerous every time they attacked with speed. Farense’s set-piece threat kept them in the game, but their inability to control Benfica B’s counter-attacks proved decisive.

Standout performers

• Rafael Mendes scored the late winner and was a constant threat from wide areas.
• Tiago Faria drove Benfica B forward and capped his performance with a fine equaliser.
• André Pires was Farense’s most dangerous player and scored their second goal.

The victory gives Benfica B an important boost in the Liga Portugal 2 promotion race and highlights the attacking quality within their squad. SC Farense will be disappointed to lose after twice getting back on level terms, but their performance offered plenty of encouragement. In a league where fine margins often decide promotion and relegation battles, Benfica B’s late composure stood out.