The opening weekend of the Liga BPI brought an unexpected jolt for Benfica fans. Playing at home, the team known for its firepower managed only a goalless draw against Racing Power. The 0-0 result felt like a cold shower. It came just after their Super Cup defeat against Torreense. Coach Ivan Baptista’s squad is now stumbling into the new championship season.
For Racing Power, a club hailing from Setúbal, this hard-fought point means something entirely different. It’s a vital step for a team looking to climb into the league’s top ranks. They arrived as the underdog but left having made a significant statement about their intent and resilience.
Benfica, despite parading new talents like Diana Gomes and Diana Silva in their starting lineup, found themselves banging against a wall. The Reds controlled the ball. They created chances. But they simply couldn’t find a way past Racing Power’s rock-solid defense. Goalkeeper Bihina stood out, putting on a clinic between the posts and earning the ‘player of the match’ award for her brilliant saves.
This opening draw leaves Benfica with questions to answer as they prepare to visit Valadares in the next round. Racing Power, on the other hand, will carry a wave of confidence into their home game against Rio Ave. The season has just begun, and the plot is already thickening.