Benfica captain Nicolás Otamendi will miss an upcoming league match due to a suspension, a development that strategically clears his disciplinary record ahead of a crucial derby against city rivals Sporting CP.
Otamendi received his fifth yellow card of the championship, triggering a one-match ban. This ensures the 37-year-old central defender will be available for the December 5 derby at Estádio da Luz.
The booking occurred in the 90th minute of Benfica’s last match, where they were already leading 3-0. Otamendi was penalized for time-wasting while preparing to take a free-kick in his own half.
After receiving the yellow card, Otamendi immediately ceded the free-kick responsibility to teammate Trubin.
He will sit out the next league fixture against Casa Pia. For that match, Tomás Araújo and António Silva are expected to form Benfica’s central defensive partnership.
Otamendi is slated to return to league action on November 29 for the 12th matchday against Nacional in Madeira. The 13th round will then feature the highly anticipated clash against Sporting.
Other Benfica players face disciplinary or injury concerns. Midfielder Ríos is currently on four yellow cards, putting him at risk of a similar suspension. Dedic remains sidelined due to injury.