Benfica returned home from the Ukrainian cold with a win and a birth in the next round of the UEFA Cup.  The win was the only result that would have helped Benfica in any way, and the players came through.

After a convincing loss to Porto only  a few days ago, Benfica showed some personality and beat Shakhtar Donetsk in the Ukraine.  I have to admit I did not think Benfica could go there and return home with a win.  Benfica showed courage, played and intelligent game, and counted on some luck.

The first half was really all Shakhtar, but Benfica was lucky enough to score on the first (and only)  two scoring opportunities.  The first goal, scored by Cardozo, came off an errant pass by the Shakhtar defense, and the second goal, also by Cardozo, came on a good header to top off a good play from start to finish.  At this point we were at the 22 minute mark, so there was a  lot of game left.

Shakhtar Donetsk would cut Benfica´s lead to only one goal, still in the first half, on a penalty quick by Lucarelli.  I am not sure if it was really a penalty, but if it was then it was a rather silly one by David Luiz since the Ukrainian forward had no chance of getting to the ball.

Benfica was able to balance things out more in the second half and have more ball control, and Shakhtar was not nearly as dangerous or as effective.  When one would expect Shakhtar to go all out and try to tie the game, since I tie would have been enough for them, Benfica was able to control the ball, and the game.  I can´t really remember a big scoring opportunity for Shakhtar at this stage in the game.

The game MVP was obviously Oscar Cardozo, who was able to do something that has been lacking all season, to score on very few shots on goal.  Usually Benfica has a lot of shots on goal before they can actually get one in.  But this game was above all a team effort.

This week is Portugal Cup play and there is no League play.  Benfica will host Academica on Sunday.