Last week Benfica beat Estrela 3 to 0 before Christmas break. This was the first victory for Benfica after two consecutive losses for Portuguese League play. This win also ended up being a lot more important than what was originally expected since Porto would lose its game.

The game was tied at the half, but Benfica would open the second half with an early goal by Christian Rodriguez at the 52 minute mark. Oscar Cardozo would score the second goal on a penalty shot, and substitute Nuno Gomes would close the scoring at the 90 minute mark.

With a tie game, Camacho used the halftime break to take defense player Nelson and veteran Rui Costa, and put in Nuno Gomes and Di Maria. Maxi Pereira then moved from mid-field to Nelson´s spot. Benfica ended up playing a very good second half, after a weak first one.

At the 83 minute mark Freddy Adu came into the game to replace game MVP Rodriguez.

From what I read, Rui Costa was not happy with the fact he was substituted at halftime, and took issue with Camacho. I have also heard that they have meanwhile made peace. I hope that is the case, since Rui is one of the leaders in the locker room and Benfica needs stability going into the month of January, especially now that Porto´s lead has been cut to “only” 7 points.