Benfica Aims for Sole Possession of First Place in Women’s Futsal Derby
The Estádio da Luz will host a thrilling women’s futsal derby tonight as Benfica takes on Sporting CP in the 15th round of the Liga Placard. A victory or draw for the eagles would propel them to the top of the table, although conditionally. Nun’Álvares, currently leading with the same points but holding the head-to-head advantage, plays tomorrow against Futsal Feijó.
Despite Sporting’s current eighth-place standing and a 23-point deficit, Benfica coach Alex Pinto anticipates a challenging encounter. He believes Sporting is experiencing a resurgence in form, making them a formidable opponent.
“Our primary focus is on our own performance rather than the opposition,” Pinto stated in an interview with BTV. ”This is our first home game of 2025, and we expect a packed stadium. We aim to continue our winning streak, which is the result of our daily dedication.”
Pinto emphasized that Benfica’s confidence remains unshaken despite Sporting’s recent positive run. “Our ambition is to dominate the game and secure a victory,” he declared.
Goalkeeper Ana Catarina echoed Pinto’s sentiments, acknowledging the difficulty of facing a resurgent Sporting side. “We anticipate an extremely challenging match against a team that appears to be gaining momentum,” she told BTV. “we are resolute to showcase our strength and secure a win.”
Catarina highlighted Benfica’s ambition to claim the top spot and secure a favorable position for the playoffs. “Our goal is to finish the first phase in first place, which would give us a significant advantage moving forward,” she added.
“They’re Coming for Us” – Legendary futsal Coach Maria João on Benfica’s Title Chase
Welcome back, futsal fans! Today, we have the privilege of speaking with Maria João, Portugal’s legendary futsal coach, who helped propel Sporting CP to glory in the early 2010s. Coach João,thanks for joining us.
Maria João: The pleasure is all mine. Always happy to talk futsal.
You must be excited by the prospect of this Benfica-Sporting derby, a fixture that’s always electrifying. Benfica has a chance to go top of the table conditionally. How do you see this match playing out?
I believe benfica will be favorites, there’s no doubt about that. They’ve been playing fantastically well, racking up wins.
But let me tell you, Sporting is a wounded animal right now. They might be down in the standings,but they’ve shown sparks of resurgence recently. This is a derby, and anything can happen. Don’t underestimate the fighting spirit of Sporting CP.
Benfica’s coach, Alex Pinto, acknowledges Sporting’s resurgence but emphasizes his team’s focus on their own performance. Is that the right approach?
It’s a double-edged sword. While focusing on your own game is essential, you can’t completely ignore your opponent. Sporting’s recent form wouldn’t have escaped Pinto’s notice.
Benfica needs to be aware of Sporting’s strengths, their weaknesses, and adapt their tactics accordingly.
Ana Catarina, Benfica’s goalkeeper, expressed their desire to secure first place.How critically important is that psychological edge going into the playoffs?
Enormously important. Finishing top of the league provides a massive psychological advantage. It demonstrates consistency throughout the season and sets the tone for the playoffs. Coming into the playoffs with that momentum can be the difference between winning and losing.
Many are surprised sporting is lagging behind. What do you identify as their main problem this season?
Sporting has struggled with consistency.They’ve had flashes of brilliance, but haven’t been able to string together a strong run of results. There might be tactical issues, but I believe it’s also a matter of confidence.
What about Benfica? What do you see as their biggest strength this season?
They’ve found a fantastic balance between attack and defense. They possess a potent attacking force and are incredibly solid defensively. This balance, coupled with their unwavering confidence, is what makes them so dangerous.
coach João, what’s your prediction for this derby?
I think it’ll be a tight, cagey affair. Benfica has the slight edge, but Sporting will make them work for it. I wouldn’t be surprised to see a draw.
But one thing’s without a doubt: we’re in for a treat! This derby has all the ingredients for a classic!
What do you think,futsal fans? Will Benfica crack the code and claim sole possession of first place? Or will Sporting pull off a stunning upset? Let us know in the comments below!
