Sometimes, football’s rulebook throws up unexpected challenges. That’s the story for Sudakov, who will not be available for selection by José Mourinho for Benfica’s home match against Rio Ave this Tuesday. It’s a bit of a head-scratcher, as the talented Ukrainian midfielder, along with teammate Lukebakio, finds himself sidelined by a peculiar technicality, not injury.
The reason is rooted in the calendar. This upcoming game against the Vila Conde team is actually a delayed fixture from the very first round of the Liga Betclic season. Benfica had to postpone it because the club was deeply involved in its crucial Champions League qualification battles at the time.
Here’s the rub: player eligibility for a postponed match is typically judged by the original scheduled date. When that initial first-round game was on the books, neither Sudakov nor Lukebakio had yet become Benfica reinforcements. Simply put, they weren’t registered players for the club back then.
It’s an odd situation, especially for Sudakov. He has been a starting player in Benfica’s last two games, showing good form on the pitch. Now, he’s forced to watch from the sidelines for a game his current teammates will play.
Lukebakio shares a similar fate due to these same registration rules. He is still waiting for his opportunity to make his debut in the famous Benfica jersey. He arrived at the Luz stadium as the very last signing on transfer deadline day. Adding to his wait, he is also currently working his way back from a physical injury.