S.L. Benfica de Macau 2–1 Chessman Chiba FC
Chinese Macao Liga de Elite – 28 June 2026, 19:00

S.L. Benfica de Macau edged past Chessman Chiba FC 2–1 in a tense encounter at the Macau Olympic Sports Complex, climbing into the top three of the Liga de Elite standings. The home side showed resilience after falling behind early, turning the match around with two well‑taken goals before half‑time.

Match Overview

The Liga de Elite match began with Chessman Chiba FC surprising the hosts with a fast start. However, Benfica de Macau’s experience and quality gradually took over, as they capitalised on defensive lapses and then managed the game effectively in the second half to secure the three points.

Key Moments

• 5th minute – Shock lead for Chessman Chiba: A defensive mix‑up allowed Chessman Chiba striker Ryo Takahashi to nip in and prod the ball past the keeper. 0–1.
• 22nd minute – Benfica equalise: The hosts responded through a fine individual effort. Midfielder João Silva drove from midfield, exchanged a one‑two, and finished low into the corner. 1–1.
• 40th minute – Benfica take the lead: A pinpoint cross from the left by Carlos Dias was met by striker Pedro Gomes, who guided a header into the net. 2–1.
• 78th minute – Chessman denied by the woodwork: The visitors nearly equalised when a curling free‑kick struck the crossbar, with the rebound cleared to safety.

Tactical Story

Benfica de Macau lined up in a 4‑2‑3‑1, looking to control possession through Silva and André Costa in midfield. Chessman Chiba, in a 4‑4‑2, focused on quick counter‑attacks and set pieces. After the opening goal, Benfica tightened their defensive shape and pushed full‑backs forward to create width, which led to both goals. In the second half, they dropped deeper to protect the lead, absorbing pressure effectively.

Standout Players

• João Silva (S.L. Benfica de Macau): Scored the equaliser and was the heartbeat of his team’s midfield, dictating tempo and breaking up plays.
• Pedro Gomes (S.L. Benfica de Macau): The centre‑forward’s movement and aerial ability caused constant problems; his headed winner was a moment of quality.
• Ryo Takahashi (Chessman Chiba FC): Scored the early goal and worked tirelessly up front, giving Benfica’s centre‑backs a difficult evening.

League Implications

The win moved S.L. Benfica de Macau to third in the Macao Liga de Elite table, just two points behind the leaders. Chessman Chiba FC remained in the bottom half but showed enough grit to suggest they can climb the standings. Benfica next face neighbours Cheng Fung, while Chessman Chiba host Monte Carlo.