The air is thick with anticipation this Sunday. One of football’s great rivalries will ignite once more as FC Porto welcomes Benfica. This highly awaited match forms the centerpiece of Liga Betclic’s eighth round. All eyes are on the tactical choices of two respected coaches, Francesco Farioli and José Mourinho. They have revealed the players they believe will win this vital “clássico.”

The kick-off is set for 9:15 PM local time. Fans will fill the Estádio do Dragão, expecting a tough fight. Both managers have spent hours planning every move. Their starting elevens show a clear strategy, but the bench holds more surprises. Each player chosen carries the hopes of their club into this battle.
FC Porto’s Starting Lineup
Francesco Farioli’s plan for FC Porto puts trust in a solid core of players. Diogo Costa takes his usual spot in goal. The defense will rely on Alberto, Bednarek, Kiwior, and Francisco Moura. In the midfield, Alan Varela, Froholdt, and Gabri Veiga are tasked with controlling the game’s flow. Up front, Pepê, Borja, and Samu will look to create scoring chances.
FC Porto’s Bench Players
- Cláudio Ramos
- Eustáquio
- William Gomes
- Zaidu
- Rosario
- Prpic
- Deniz Gül
- Angel Alarcón
- Rodrigo Mora
Benfica’s Starting Lineup
José Mourinho, known for his keen mind, has also made his selections for Benfica. Trubin will guard the goal. The backline features Dedic, António Silva, Otamendi, and Dahl. In the middle of the park, Enzo Barrenechea, Richard RÃos, and Aursnes will dictate play. The attacking trio includes Lukebakio, Sudakov, and Pavlidis, ready to challenge Porto’s defense.
Benfica’s Bench Players
- Samuel Soares
- Franjo Ivanovic
- Leandro Barreiro
- Schjelderup
- Henrique Araújo
- Tomás Araújo
- Gonçalo Oliveira
- João Rego
- Ivan Lima
