2008–09 S.L. Benfica season

January 2015 Benfica 2008–09 President Luís Filipe Vieira Quique Sánchez Flores Estádio da Luz Primeira Liga 3rd UEFA Cup Group stage (5th) Taça de Portugal Fifth round Taça da Liga Winners Óscar Cardozo (17) Óscar Cardozo (17) 60,022 v Sporting CPhttp://www.ligaportugal.pt/pt/liga/estatisticas/espectadores/jogo/20082009/primeiraliga Painel de Espectadores Attendance list per match ligaportugal.pt 20 August 2016 Portuguese https://web.archive.org/web/20160821044438/http://www.ligaportugal.pt/pt/liga/estatisticas/espectadores/jogo/20082009/primeiraliga 21 August 2016 dead dmy-all (27 September 2008) 9,570 v Metalist Kharkiv(18 December 2008) 35,698http://www.ligaportugal.pt/pt/liga/estatisticas/espectadores/clube/20082009/primeiraliga Painel de Espectadores Attendance list per club ligaportugal.pt 20 August 2016 Portuguese https://web.archive.org/web/20160821044434/http://www.ligaportugal.pt/pt/liga/estatisticas/espectadores/clube/20082009/primeiraliga 21 August 2016 dead dmy-all Marítimo 0–6 Benfica(7 December 2008) Olympiacos 5–1 Benfica(27 November 2008) _benfica0809h _benfica0809H _benfica0809h _benfica0809h _adidaswhitel FF0000 FF0000 FF0000 FFFFFF FF0000 _benfica0809a _benfica0809A _benfica0809a _benfica0809a _adidasredl FFFFFF FFFFFF FFFFFF 000000 000000 2007–08 2009–10 The 2008–09 European football season was Sport Lisboa e Benfica's 105th season and their 75th consecutive season in the top flight of Portuguese football. The season ran from 1 July 2008 to 30 June 2009, with Benfica competing domestically in the Primeira Liga, Taça de Portugal and Taça da Liga. The club also participated in the UEFA Cup, since they finished fourth in the Primeira Liga the previous season. After José Antonio Camacho's March 2008 resignation, Benfica did not have a permanent manager. The club inquired about Quique Sánchez Flores, Sven-Göran Eriksson and others, ultimately choosing Flores. Rui Costa led the transfer activity as Benfica continued to invest heavily, spending nearly €19 million on Javier Balboa, Carlos Martins, Pablo Aimar and Sidnei and bringing in José Antonio Reyes and David Suazo on loan. Major departures included Rui Costa, Cristian Rodríguez, Petit and Nélson. Benfica's season began inauspiciously, but they quickly recovered, gaining momentum domestically and eliminating Napoli to qualify for the group stage of the UEFA Cup. Until January, the club's performance fluctuated in their European campaign and the domestic league. Although they finished last in the former, they reached first place in the Primeira Liga for the first time since 2005. In the new year, Benfica suffered their first league loss, falling to second place and beginning their erratic spell. Despite a sterling League Cup (where they earned their first honour in four seasons), the club's league play was not as impressive. They battled Porto for first place until March, when they had another costly loss and were passed by Sporting CP. Benfica tried to retake second place in the remaining eight matches, but in early May, the club dropped five points, sealing their fate; they finished third, missing the UEFA Champions League for a second consecutive season. Season summary Pre-season In February 2008, club president Luís Filipe Vieira announced that a new director of football for 2008–09 had been selected.Director desportivo escolhido Sports director chosen http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/director-desportivo-escolhido.html 26 January 2016 Record 28 February 2008 Portuguese Although he did not name the individual, one month later Rui Costa confirmed that he would oversee Benfica's football division.Rui Costa: "Sucesso seja em que posição for" Rui Costa: "Success wherever position it may be" http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/rui-costa-sucesso-seja-em-que-posicao-for.html 26 January 2016 Record 30 March 2003 Portuguese With the unexpected resignation of head coach José Antonio Camacho on 10 March, assistant Fernando Chalana led the team through the final two months of the season.Vieira: "Novo treinador só no final da época" Vieira: "New manager only at the end of the season" http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/vieira-novo-treinador-so-no-final-da-epoca.html 26 January 2016 Record 30 March 2008 Portuguese On 12 April Spanish manager Quique Sánchez Flores confirmed contacts from Benfica, who wanted him to take over the team immediately.Quique Flores: "Benfica contactou o meu empresário" Quique Flores: "Benfica contacted my representative" http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/quique-flores-benfica-contactou-o-meu-empresario.html 26 January 2016 Record 12 April 2008 Portuguese Sánchez Flores declined the offer because he did not wish to be a temporary manager, and preferred to join a team at the beginning of the season.Quique Flores recusou vir agora Quique Flores refused to come immediately http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/quique-flores-recusou-vir-agora.html 26 January 2016 Record Portuguese On 7 May, Vieira and Rui Costa travelled to Manchester to persuade Sven-Göran Eriksson to return for a third stint with Benfica.Vieira e Rui Costa em Manchester Vieira and Rui Costa in Manchester http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/vieira-e-rui-costa-em-manchester.html 26 January 2016 Record 7 May 2008 Portuguese Although both sides confirmed the meeting, after more than a week without an agreement the club moved on to other coaching candidates.Águias confirmam conversa com Eriksson Eagles confirmed contacts with Eriksson http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/aguias-confirmam-conversa-com-eriksson.html 26 January 2016 Record 8 May 2008 PortugueseEriksson: "Estou a considerar oferta" Eriksson: "I'm evaluating the offer" http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/eriksson-estou-a-considerar-oferta.html 26 January 2016 Record 8 May 2008 PortugueseÁguias descartam Eriksson Eagles discard Eriksson http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/aguias-descartam-eriksson.html 26 January 2016 Record 14 May 2008 Portuguese Benfica then contacted Getafe manager Michael LaudrupÁguias não estão sós na corrida por Laudrup Eagles are not alone in the race for Michael Laudrup http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/aguias-nao-estao-sos-na-corrida-por-laudrup.html 26 January 2016 Record 19 May 2008 Portuguese and Brazilian manager Zico.Águias abordam Zico Eagles approach Zico http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/aguias-abordam-zico.html 26 January 2016 Record 21 May 2008 Portuguese After failing to come to terms with either, the club turned to first choice Sánchez Flores and signed him on 24 May.Benfica appoint Flores as coach https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/europe/7418607.stm 26 January 2016 BBC Sport 24 May 2008 Sánchez Flores would be aided by technical assistant Fran Escribá, goalkeeper coach Emilio Álvarez and fitness coach Pako Ayestarán, with Diamantino Miranda and Chalana links to club management.Equipa técnica está fechada Technical staff set http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/equipa-tecnica-esta-fechada.html 26 January 2016 Record 27 May 2008 PortugueseQuique e os cinco na casa de partida Quique and the five at the start point http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/quique-e-os-cinco-na-casa-de-partida.html 26 January 2016 Record 30 May 2008 Portuguese Benfica made their first transfer deals in late April, adding Ruben Amorim and Jorge Ribeiro, both of whom had previously played for Benfica.Transferência de Amorim confirmada Signing of Amorim confirmed http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/transferencia-de-amorim-confirmada.html 26 January 2016 Record 18 April 2008 PortugueseJorge Ribeiro contratado Jorge Ribeiro signed http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/jorge-ribeiro-contratado.html 26 January 2016 Record 20 April 2008 Portuguese With Sánchez Flores in charge, Benfica added midfielder Hassan Yebda on a free transferRui Costa: "Yebda é um reforço importante" Rui Costa: "Yebda is an important signing" http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/rui-costa-yebda-e-um-reforco-importante.html 26 January 2016 Record 29 May 2008 Portuguese and spent €4 million on Javier Balboa from Real Madrid.Comunicado Announcement http://www.slbenfica.pt/Portals/0/Documentos/Estatutos/Informacoes%20Privilegiadas_2008/Comunicado_25-06-2008.pdf 26 January 2016 SL Benfica CMVM 25 June 2008 Portuguese https://web.archive.org/web/20120127085129/http://www.slbenfica.pt/Portals/0/Documentos/Estatutos/Informacoes%20Privilegiadas_2008/Comunicado_25-06-2008.pdf 27 January 2012 Balboa was signed only three days after the shock transfer of former Paris Saint-Germain loan Cristian Rodríguez to rival Porto. Although Benfica negotiated with PSG and the Uruguayan for months, the sides could not reach an agreement.Porto pick up Rodríguez https://www.uefa.com/memberassociations/news/newsid=726056.html https://web.archive.org/web/20101127023511/http://www.uefa.com/memberassociations/news/newsid=726056.html dead 27 November 2010 26 January 2016 UEFA 22 June 2008 During the next few weeks Benfica continued to spend, paying €3 million to Recreativo de Huelva for Carlos MartinsComunicado Announcement http://www.slbenfica.pt/Portals/0/Documentos/Estatutos/Informacoes%20Privilegiadas_2008/Comunicado_30-06-2008.pdf 26 January 2016 SL Benfica CMVM 30 June 2008 Portuguese https://web.archive.org/web/20120127084945/http://www.slbenfica.pt/Portals/0/Documentos/Estatutos/Informacoes%20Privilegiadas_2008/Comunicado_30-06-2008.pdf 27 January 2012 and €6.5 million two weeks later, after a prolonged transfer saga, to Real Zaragoza for Pablo Aimar.Comunicado Announcement http://www.slbenfica.pt/Portals/0/Documentos/Estatutos/Informacoes%20Privilegiadas_2008/Comunicado-16-07-2008.pdf 26 January 2016 SL Benfica CMVM 16 July 2008 Portuguese https://web.archive.org/web/20140914224232/http://www.slbenfica.pt/Portals/0/Documentos/Estatutos/Informacoes%20Privilegiadas_2008/Comunicado-16-07-2008.pdf 14 September 2014 260px|thumbnail|right|alt=Grandstand with two large banners and fans wearing red and white|Banners commemorating Benfica's 24 Portuguese Cups and one Latin Cup at the Eusébio Cup on 15 August The club's pre-season began on 8 July with two days of medical tests.Arrancou a pré-época Pre-season has started http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/arrancou-a-pre-epoca.html 27 January 2016 Record 8 July 2008 Portuguese Benfica's first training session was held two days later, nine days before their first pre-season match with Estoril.Primeiro treino da época será aberto ao público First training session will be open to the fans http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/primeiro-treino-da-epoca-sera-aberto-ao-publico.html 27 January 2016 Record 7 July 2008 PortugueseEstoril-Benfica, 1-1 (Nuno Sousa 63'; Yebda 12') http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/estoril/detalhe/estoril-benfica-1-1-nuno-sousa-63-yebda-12.html 27 January 2016 Record 19 July 2008 Portuguese https://web.archive.org/web/20160302034737/http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/estoril/detalhe/estoril-benfica-1-1-nuno-sousa-63-yebda-12.html 2 March 2016 dead dmy-all After a draw with Estori, the club lost Guadiana Trophy matches to Blackburn Rovers and Sporting CP.Benfica-Blackburn, 2-3 (Urreta 7', Makukula 67'; Pederson 33', Roberts 35', Emerton 50') http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/benfica-blackburn-2-3-urreta-7-makukula-67-pederson-33-roberts-35-emerton-50.html 27 January 2016 Record 25 July 2007 PortugueseBenfica-Sporting, 0-2 (Yannick 57', Derlei 71') http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/sporting/detalhe/benfica-sporting-0-2-yannick-57-derlei-71.html 27 January 2016 Record 27 July 2008 Portuguese That week Benfica made more squad adjustments, paying €5 million for 18-year old SidneiComunicado Announcement http://www.slbenfica.pt/Portals/0/Documentos/Estatutos/Informacoes%20Privilegiadas_2008/Comunicado_24-07-2008.pdf 26 January 2016 SL Benfica CMVM 24 July 2008 Portuguese https://web.archive.org/web/20120127085022/http://www.slbenfica.pt/Portals/0/Documentos/Estatutos/Informacoes%20Privilegiadas_2008/Comunicado_24-07-2008.pdf 27 January 2012 and releasing Petit after six years with the club.Petit: "Tenho de agradecer a disponibilidade do Benfica" Petit: "I have to thank Benfica's availability" http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/petit-tenho-de-agradecer-a-disponibilidade-do-benfica.html 27 January 2016 Record 29 July 2008 Portuguese Early in August, Benfica won the Cidade de Guimarães Trophy against Paris Saint-Germain and Vitória de Guimarães, drawing with the former and defeating the latter.Benfica-Paris Saint-Germain, 2-2 (Makukula, 74', Cardozo 81'; Pancrate 38', 58') http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/benfica-paris-saint-germain-2-2-makukula-74-cardozo-81-pancrate-38-58.html 27 January 2016 Record 2 August 2008 Portuguese Before their presentation match with Feyenoord, Benfica signed Spanish winger José Antonio Reyes in a €2.6 million loan deal.Comunicado Announcement http://www.slbenfica.pt/Portals/0/Documentos/Estatutos/Informacoes%20Privilegiadas_2008/Comunicado_07-08-2008.pdf 26 January 2016 SL Benfica CMVM 7 August 2008 Portuguese https://web.archive.org/web/20120127085507/http://www.slbenfica.pt/Portals/0/Documentos/Estatutos/Informacoes%20Privilegiadas_2008/Comunicado_07-08-2008.pdf 27 January 2012 In the match with Feyenoord, Óscar Cardozo scored the winning goal for Benfica.Benfica-Feyenoord, 1-0 (Cardozo 69') http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/benfica-feyenoord-1-0-cardozo-69.html 27 January 2016 Record 9 August 2008 Portuguese The club ended its preparation for the season against Inter Milan on 15 August in the new Eusébio Cup.Quique promete melhor equipa Taça Eusébio Quique promises best team at the Eusebio Cup http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/quique-promete-melhor-equipa-taca-eusebio.html 27 January 2016 Record 31 July 2008 Portuguese After a goalless draw in regular time, the Milanese won on penalties.Benfica-Inter, 0-0 (4-5 g.p.) http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/benfica-inter-0-0-4-5-gp.html 27 January 2016 Record 15 August 2008 Portuguese August–September Benfica's first competitive game was an away Primeira Liga opener against Rio Ave. Sánchez Flores did not have Reyes, and Jonathan Urretaviscaya started instead.Quique Flores: "Equipa tem alternativa a Reyes" Quique Flores: "Team has alternatives to Reyes" http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/quique-flores-equipa-tem-alternativa-a-reyes.html 28 January 2016 Record 23 August 2008 Portuguese At the Estádio dos Arcos, the home team scored first with a 55th-minute goal from José Semedo. A minute later Benfica evened the score, with Urreta assisting Nuno Gomes for the 1–1 final result.Rio Ave-Benfica, 1-1 (Semedo 55'; Nuno Gomes 56') http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/rio-ave/detalhe/rio-ave-benfica-1-1-semedo-55-nuno-gomes-56.html 28 January 2016 Record 24 August 2008 Portuguese It was the fourth consecutive time that Benfica failed to win their league start.Neblina sem fim Endless mist http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/neblina-sem-fim.html 28 January 2016 Record 25 August 2008 Portuguese Sánchez Flores said that Rio Ave created unexpected problems: "It was not a easy game. We had a quality opponent, who left us trailing when we were not expecting it."Quique Flores: "Não foi um jogo fácil" Quique Flores: "It was not an easy game" http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/quique-flores-nao-foi-um-jogo-facil.html 28 January 2016 Record 24 August 2008 Portuguese During the last week of August Benfica brought in Honduran striker David Suazo on loan,Empréstimo de Suazo assegurado Suazo's loan confirmed http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/emprestimo-de-suazo-assegurado.html 26 January 2016 Record 28 August 2008 Portuguese sold right-back Nélson Marcos to BetisBetis oficializa contratação de Nélson Bétis confirms signing of Nélson http://www.record.xl.pt/internacional/detalhe/betis-oficializa-contratacao-de-nelson.html 28 January 2016 Record 28 August 2008 Portuguese and was paired with Italian side Napoli in the UEFA Cup first-round draw on 29 August.Duelo com Nápoles na Taça UEFA Battle with Napoli at the UEFA Cup http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/duelo-com-napoles-na-taca-uefa.html 28 January 2016 Record 29 August 2008 Portuguese A day later, Benfica hosted Porto for the first Clássico of the season. The visitors started better, converting a 10th-minute penalty kick for a Kostas Katsouranis foul against Lucho González. In the 56th minute, Cardozo exploited a mistake by Helton to head in the equaliser. Three minutes later Katsouranis was sent off, but Benfica held the tie until the final whistle.Benfica-FC Porto (Cardozo 56'; Lucho 11' gp) http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/fc-porto/detalhe/benfica-fc-porto-cardozo-56-lucho-11-gp.html 28 January 2016 Record 30 August 2008 Portuguese Quique Flores said, "It was a good game. In normal conditions we would have done better, but circumstances made it a little harder."Quique Flores: "Circunstâncias complicaram" Quique Flores: "Game events complicated everything" http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/quique-flores-circunstancias-complicaram.html 28 January 2016 Record 30 August 2008 Portuguese After the first two weeks of September were dedicated to international football, Benfica returned to competition on the 18th. In the first leg of the qualifying stage for the UEFA Cup, the club faced Napoli at the Stadio San Paolo. Suazo began the scoring for Benfica with a 16th-minute header, but the lead lasted only two minutes. Luigi Vitale tied the score, and Germán Denis scored again for Napoli a minute later. In the second half Christian Maggio added another for Napoli, with Luisão scoring for Benfica three minutes later.Nápoles-Benfica, 3-2 (Vitale 18', Denis 20', Maggio 55'; Suazo 16', Luisão 60') http://www.record.xl.pt/internacional/competicoes-de-clubes/liga-europa/detalhe/napoles-benfica-3-2-vitale-18-denis-20-maggio-55-suazo-16-luisao-60.html 1 February 2016 Record 18 September 2008 Portuguese Although Quique Flores believed that the loss was a combination of referee mistakes and errors by his players, he believed his club could qualify.Quique Flores com queixas da arbitragem Quique Flores complains of the referee http://www.record.xl.pt/internacional/competicoes-de-clubes/liga-europa/detalhe/quique-flores-com-queixas-da-arbitragem.html 1 February 2016 Record 18 September 2008 Portuguese The following Monday, Benfica visited the Estádio da Mata Real to play Paços de Ferreira in a 4–3 win. Nuno Gomes scored the one-nil in the sixth minute, and Paços equalised less than 10 minutes later. Before half-time, Quique's men added two more goals. In the restart, Paços made the match 3–2 in the 63rd minute before Benfica responded with a fourth goal from Jorge Ribeiro. Before the final whistle, William scored another for Paços.P. Ferreira-Benfica, 3-4 (Ozeia 14', Rui Miguel 63' e William 86'; Nuno Gomes 7', Maxi Pereira 31', Cardozo 44' g.p. e Jorge Ribeiro 76') http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/p--ferreira/detalhe/p-ferreira-benfica-3-4-ozeia-14-rui-miguel-63-e-william-86-nuno-gomes-7-maxi-pereira-31-cardozo-44-gp-e-jorge-ribeiro-76.html 1 February 2016 Record 22 September 2008 Portuguese https://web.archive.org/web/20160304192235/http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/p--ferreira/detalhe/p-ferreira-benfica-3-4-ozeia-14-rui-miguel-63-e-william-86-nuno-gomes-7-maxi-pereira-31-cardozo-44-gp-e-jorge-ribeiro-76.html 4 March 2016 dead dmy-all Sánchez Flores said about his first win at Benfica, "I am happy for the fans, who needed this to feel that their team also fights for the league."Quique: "Feliz pelos adeptos" Quique: "I am happy for the fans" http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/quique-feliz-pelos-adeptos.html 1 February 2016 Record 22 September 2008 Portuguese On 27 September, Benfica hosted Sporting CP for the first Lisbon derby of the season. With the visitors enjoying a four-point lead in the league, Benfica had to win to move up in the standings. The game's only goals were in the second half, the first in the 67th minute when Pablo Aimar assisted Reyes; four minutes later, Sidnei headed in a free kick from Carlos Martins for the second.Benfica-Sporting, 2-0 (Reyes 67', Sidnei 72') http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/sporting/detalhe/benfica-sporting-2-0-reyes-67-sidnei-72.html 1 February 2016 Record 27 September 2008 Portuguese Sánchez Flores was encouraged by the victory against a team as strong as Sporting.Quique Flores: "Estamos naturalmente felizes" Quique: "We are naturally happy" http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/quique-flores-estamos-naturalmente-felizes.html 1 February 2016 Record 27 September 2008 Portuguese October–November October began with a crucial match against Napoli. Benfica had only defeated Italian teams four times, most recently on 29 March 1994.Repetir Parma Repeat Parma http://www.record.xl.pt/internacional/competicoes-de-clubes/liga-europa/detalhe/repetir-parma.html 1 February 2016 Record 19 September 2008 Portuguese The club won with two second-half goals (an opener from Reyes and a confirmation goal from Nuno Gomes), qualifying for the group stage.Benfica 3-2 Napoli https://www.uefa.com/uefaeuropaleague/match/303969--benfica-vs-napoli/ 1 February 2016 UEFA 2 October 2008 The victory placed Sánchez Flores in club history, since Benfica had never eliminated an Italian team after losing the first leg.Quique faz história Quique makes history http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/quique-faz-historia.html 1 February 2016 Record 3 October 2008 Portuguese The game was Benfica TV's first broadcast.Benfica TV sintonizada por 100 mil clientes Meo Benfica TV tuned in with 100 thousand clients http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/benfica-tv-sintonizada-por-100-mil-clientes-meo.html 1 February 2016 Record 3 October 2008 Portuguese On 6 October, the club played Leixões on the road. With the top of the Primeira Liga just three points away,Topo à vista Top on sight http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/topo-a-vista.html 1 February 2016 Record 6 October 2008 Portuguese Benfica could not beat the home team, losing two points; they led the game for over an hour, but were stopped by an 88th-minute equaliser from Wesley.Leixões-Benfica, 1-1 (Wesley 88'; Cardozo 33') http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/leixoes-benfica-1-1-wesley-88-cardozo-33.html 1 February 2016 Record 6 October 2008 Portuguese To Sánchez Flores, the draw was due to Benfica's performance: low possession, missed passes and fouls resulting in free kicks.Quique Flores: "Não jogámos bem" Quique Flores: "We did not play well" http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/quique-flores-nao-jogamos-bem.html 1 February 2016 Record 6 October 2008 Portuguese The following day, Benfica heard from UEFA headquarters in Nyon that their UEFA Cup group would include Olympiacos, Galatasaray, Hertha BSC and Metalist Kharkiv.Olympiacos, Galatasaray, Hertha e Metalist no grupo do Benfica Olympiacos, Galatasaray, Hertha and Metalist in Benfica's group http://www.record.xl.pt/internacional/competicoes-de-clubes/liga-europa/detalhe/olympiacos-galatasaray-hertha-e-metalist-no-grupo-do-benfica.html 1 February 2016 Record 7 October 2008 Portuguese After a two-week break for international matches, competition resumed with the Taça de Portugal on the 18th. Benfica met third-tier side Penafiel at home; unable to defeat them in regular and extra time, they required penalty kicks. Luís Dias missed one for Penafiel, enabling Benfica to advance to the fifth round.Benfica-Penafiel, 0-0 (5-3 g.p.) http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/taca-de-portugal/detalhe/benfica-penafiel-0-0-5-3-gp.html 1 February 2016 Record 19 October 2008 Portuguese Sánchez Flores said, "We wanted to play good football, but that did not happen."Quique: "Queríamos ter jogado bem" Quique Flores: "We wanted to play well" http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/taca-de-portugal/detalhe/quique-queriamos-ter-jogado-bem.html 1 February 2016 Record 19 November 2008 Portuguese The following Thursday, Benfica travelled to Berlin to play Hertha in the Group B opening game. They took the lead with a 51st-minute goal from Ángel Di María, but Hertha responded with a 74th-minute equaliser when a shot by Marko Pantelić was deflected by Maxi Pereira.Pantelic pounces to earn Hertha a point https://www.uefa.com/uefaeuropaleague/news/01d2-0e702c8ce72c-24c7172bfa07-1000--pantelic-pounces-to-earn-hertha-a-point/ 1 February 2016 UEFA 24 October 2008 live https://web.archive.org/web/20180220112330/https://www.uefa.com/uefaeuropaleague/season=2009/matches/round=15285/match=304170/postmatch/report/index.html 20 February 2018 Captain Nuno Gomes said that although an away draw in Europe was a good result, Hertha's equaliser was bitter for the team.Nuno Gomes: "Empate positivo com sabor amargo" Nuno Gomes: "Draw was good, albeit with a bitter taste" http://www.record.xl.pt/internacional/competicoes-de-clubes/liga-europa/detalhe/nuno-gomes-empate-positivo-com-sabor-amargo.html 1 February 2016 Record 23 October 2008 Portuguese October ended with a home game against Naval. After a first half in which both teams failed to convert opportunities, Benfica scored their opening goal in the 71st minute. Naval evened the score eleven minutes later, but Cardozo responded with an 86th-minute winner for Benfica.Benfica vence Naval na Luz https://www.cmjornal.pt/desporto/futebol/detalhe/benfica-vence-naval-na-luz? 1 February 2016 Correio da Manhã 26 October 2008 Portuguese Sánchez Flores said that the game was difficult because of his club's inconsistency.Quique Flores: "Foi um jogo complicado" Quique Flores: "It was a difficult game" http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/quique-flores-foi-um-jogo-complicado.html 1 February 2016 Record 26 October 2008 Portuguese In November, Benfica had a busy schedule with six matches, two for the UEFA Cup. They began with a visit to Estádio D. Afonso Henriques, home of Vitória de Guimarães. David Suazo's 14th-minute goal was Benfica's 5,000th goal in competition.Um tiro mágico de Suazo A magical shot from Suazo http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/um-tiro-magico-de-suazo.html 2 February 2016 Record 3 November 2008 Portuguese Sidnei made the score 2–0, with Guimarães scoring a goal.V. Guimarães-Benfica, 1-2 (Douglas 41'; Suazo 15', Sidnei 18') http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/v--guimaraes/detalhe/v-guimaraes-benfica-1-2-douglas-41-suazo-15-sidnei-18.html 2 February 2016 Record 2 November 2008 Portuguese The win gave Benfica second place, one point shy of leader Leixões. Sánchez Flores attributed the victory to his players' commitment.Quique Flores: "Estou muito contente com os jogadores" Quique Flores: "I am very happy with my players" http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/quique-flores-estou-muito-contente-com-os-jogadores.html 2 February 2016 Record 2 November 2008 Portuguese The following Thursday, Benfica hosted Galatasaray in match-day two of the UEFA Cup. They lost two-nil, with second-half goals from Emre Aşık and Ümit Karan.Benfica scalp keeps Galatasaray climbing https://www.uefa.com/uefaeuropaleague/news/01d3-0e705156e21f-4a94de2ae8e1-1000--benfica-scalp-keeps-galatasaray-climbing/ 2 February 2016 UEFA 7 November 2008 live https://web.archive.org/web/20180220112149/https://www.uefa.com/uefaeuropaleague/season=2009/matches/round=15285/match=304186/postmatch/report/index.html 20 February 2018 It was the club's first European loss to a Turkish team, and their largest home loss in European competition since 6 March 1997.Velhos fantasmas Old ghosts http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/velhos-fantasmas.html 2 February 2016 Record 7 November 2008 Portuguese With one point in two games, Benfica had to earn points in their next match to remain in the competition.Quique Flores: "Foi um dia mau" Quique Flores: "It was a bad day" http://www.record.xl.pt/internacional/competicoes-de-clubes/liga-europa/detalhe/quique-flores-foi-um-dia-mau.html 2 February 2016 Record 6 November 2008 Portuguese On 10 November, the club romped over Desportivo das Aves in the Portuguese Cup. The Liga de Honra side was helpless against Benfica's offence, trailing three-nil at the 30-minute mark.Benfica-Aves, 3-0 (Yebda 3', Luisão 19', Maxi Pereira 30') http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/taca-de-portugal/detalhe/benfica-aves-3-0-yebda-3-luisao-19-maxi-pereira-30.html 2 February 2016 Record 10 November 2008 Portuguese Almost a week later, Benfica hosted a league game against Estrela da Amadora. After a first half in which they struggled to beat Estrela goalkeeper Nélson, in the 51st minute Nuno Gomes assisted Sidnei for the game's only goal.Benfica-E. Amadora, 1-0 (Sidnei 51') http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/benfica-e-amadora-1-0-sidnei-51.html 2 February 2016 Record 16 November 2008 Portuguese Sánchez Flores called the win important because it held Benfica's lead over their rivals.Quique Flores: "Momentos melhores que outros" Quique Flores: "Some moments better than others" http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/quique-flores-momentos-melhores-que-outros.html 2 February 2016 Record 16 November 2008 Portuguese The club continued to win domestically, with an away victory over Académica on the 23rd.Académica-Benfica, 0-2 (Ruben Amorim 31', Cardozo 47' gp) http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/academica-benfica-0-2-ruben-amorim-31-cardozo-47-gp.html 2 February 2016 Record 23 November 2008 Portuguese Earning 21 points in nine match days was a club high for the 2000s, matched only in 2000–01.Únicos invencíveis em ligas europeias Only team undefeated in Europe http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/unicos-invenciveis-em-ligas-europeias.html 2 February 2016 Record 24 November 2008 Portuguese Four days later, Benfica visited Karaiskakis Stadium to play Olympiacos. With a 39th-second goal from Luciano Galletti, the club trailed from the beginning. They conceded three more goals in the first half and a fifth in the second half, losing 5–1.Slick Olympiacos leave Benfica standing https://www.uefa.com/uefaeuropaleague/news/01d3-0e7077dee685-95023ea6e066-1000--slick-olympiacos-leave-benfica-standing/ 2 February 2016 UEFA 27 November 2008 live https://web.archive.org/web/20180220033210/https://www.uefa.com/uefaeuropaleague/season=2009/matches/round=15285/match=304202/postmatch/report/index.html 20 February 2018 The result left Benfica on the brink of a UEFA Cup exit, and was a dark remembrance of their worst European defeat nine years before in Vigo.Toma lá mais cinco There, take five more http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/toma-la-mais-cinco.html 2 February 2016 Record 28 November 2008 Portuguese Their performance was criticised; according to Luís Avelãs it was "extremely poor, full of beginner's mistakes, inadmissible distractions and multiple poor choices",Humilhante tragédia em Atenas Humiliating tragedy in Athens http://www.record.xl.pt/opiniao/cronistas/luis-avelas/detalhe/humilhante-tragedia-em-atenas.html 2 February 2016 Record 28 November 2008 Portuguese and Sánchez Flores apologised to the fans.Quique Flores: "Queria pedir desculpa aos adeptos" Quique Flores: "I want to apologise to the fans" http://www.record.xl.pt/internacional/competicoes-de-clubes/liga-europa/detalhe/quique-flores-queria-pedir-desculpa-aos-adeptos.html 2 February 2016 Record 27 November 2008 Portuguese December–January Benfica began December hoping to extend their domestic winning streak, and the club's first game hosted Vitória de Setúbal on 1 December. Laionel opened the score for Setúbal in the 35th minute, with Benfica only responding in the second half with Kostas Katsouranis. In the 59th minute, David Suazo fired a powerful shot that beat Pedro Alves and put Benfica in the lead. However, in the 91st minute, a bicycle kick by Anderson do Ó cleared Quim and levelled the game.Benfica-V. Setúbal, 2-2 (Katsouranis 48', Suazo 59'; Laionel 35', Anderson 90'+1) http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/v--setubal/detalhe/benfica-v-setubal-2-2-katsouranis-48-suazo-59-laionel-35-anderson-901.html 2 February 2016 Record 1 December 2008 Portuguese Although Sánchez Flores called the equaliser an accident, he soon dropped Quim in favour of José Moreira.Quique Flores: "Golo de empate foi um acidente" Quique Flores: "Equaliser was an accident" http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/quique-flores-golo-de-empate-foi-um-acidente.html 2 February 2016 Record 1 December 2008 PortugueseO drama de Quim Quim's drama http://www.record.xl.pt/opiniao/detalhe/o-drama-de-quim.html 2 February 2016 Record 10 December 2008 Portuguese A week later, Benfica visited the Estádio dos Barreiros to play Marítimo. They had their best performance of the season, winning 6–0 with Suazo and Nuno Gomes each scoring twice.Marítimo-Benfica, 0-6 (Reyes 20' gp, Suazo 42', 85', Luisão 66', Nuno Gomes 87', 90'+3) http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/maritimo/detalhe/maritimo-benfica-0-6-reyes-20-gp-suazo-42-85-luisao-66-nuno-gomes-87-903.html 2 February 2016 Record 7 December 2008 Portuguese The win put Benfica at the top of the table for the first time since May 2005,Líder 1.295 dias depois Leader 1,295 days later http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/lider-1295-dias-depois.html 2 February 2016 Record 8 December 2008 Portuguese and was their largest away win since 1974. On 13 December, Benfica played Leixões for a place in the Portuguese Cup quarter-finals. On a rainy night at Estádio do Mar, neither team could find the back of the net in regular and extra time. Reyes missed a penalty, giving Leixões the win.Leixões-Benfica, 0-0 (5-4 gp) http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/taca-de-portugal/detalhe/leixoes-benfica-0-0-5-4-gp.html 2 February 2016 Record 13 December 2008 Portuguese Although Nuno Gomes was frustrated with the elimination, he said it was time to hold their heads high and win the league.Nuno Gomes: "Levantar a cabeça e ganhar a Liga" Nuno Gomes: "Held head high and win the league" http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/taca-de-portugal/detalhe/nuno-gomes-levantar-a-cabeca-e-ganhar-a-liga.html 2 February 2016 Record 14 December 2008 Portuguese On Thursday the 18th, Benfica closed their European campaign by hosting Metalist Kharkiv. To qualify, Benfica had to win 8–0 and Olympiacos not win; in case of a draw, Benfica needed a better goal average.Benfica sai da UEFA com mais uma derrota Benfica exits UEFA Cup with another loss http://www.jn.pt/desporto/interior/benfica-sai-da-uefa-com-mais-uma-derrota-1061021.html?id=1061021 20 August 2016 Jornal de Notícias 19 December 2009 Portuguese They lost one-nil, finishing last in Group B.Metalist scavenge victory in Lisbon https://www.uefa.com/uefaeuropaleague/news/01d4-0e70a2e3abcd-2c6c9d8c15e7-1000--metalist-scavenge-victory-in-lisbon/ 2 February 2016 UEFA 18 December 2008 live https://web.archive.org/web/20180220035051/https://www.uefa.com/uefaeuropaleague/season=2009/matches/round=15285/match=304243/postmatch/report/index.html 20 February 2018 Sánchez Flores assumed full responsibility for his team's performance in the competition.Quique Flores: "Repudiamos o que fizemos aqui" Quique Flores: "We repudiate what he did here" http://www.record.xl.pt/internacional/competicoes-de-clubes/liga-europa/detalhe/quique-flores-repudiamos-o-que-fizemos-aqui.html 2 February 2016 Record 19 December 2008 Portuguese Of 40 teams, only Partizan, Heerenveen and Feyenoord played worse than Benfica.Eliminação com números impensáveis Elimination with unthinkable numbers http://www.record.xl.pt/opiniao/cronistas/luis-avelas/detalhe/eliminacao-com-numeros-impensaveis.html 2 February 2016 Record 18 December 2008 Portuguese The year ended with a home game against Nacional. Benfica never overcame Nacional goalkeeper Rafael Bracalli, wasting an opportunity to open a four-point lead in the league table.Benfica-Nacional 0-0 http://www.record.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/benfica-nacional-0-0.html 2 February 2016 Record 22 December 2008 PortugueseBenfica empata com Nacional http://www.cmjornal.xl.pt/desporto/futebol/detalhe/benfica-empata-com-nacional.html 2 February 2016 Record 22 December 2008 Portuguese The match ended in controversy after Cardozo had a goal disallowed because Miguel Vítor had deflected the ball with his hands.Pedro Henriques: "Mão inverte trajectória da bola" Pedro Henriques: "Hand deflects the ball trajectory" http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/pedro-henriques-mao-inverte-trajectoria-da-bola.html 2 February 2016 Record 23 December 2008 Portuguese According to Sánchez Flores, the goal was legitimate and Benfica were deprived of three points.Quique Flores: "Pensamos que o golo foi limpo" Quique Flores: "We thought the goal was clean" http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/quique-flores-pensamos-que-o-golo-foi-limpo.html 2 February 2016 Record 22 December 2008 Portuguese In January, the club had seven scheduled matches, four in the Primeira Liga and three for the League Cup. They opened with an away game against Trofense, their first league loss. Reguila scored first for Trofense, with Hélder Barbosa adding a confirmation goal in the 82nd minute.Trofense 2-0 Benfica https://desporto.sapo.pt/futebol/primeira_liga/epoca-0809/jogos/62398#live-match 2 February 2016 Sapo Desporto 4 January 2009 Portuguese The loss cost Benfica first place, and they trailed Porto by one point.Benfica derrotado (2-0) pelo Trofense Benfica defeated by Trofense http://www.jn.pt/desporto/interior/benfica-derrotado-20-pelo-trofense--1066634.html?id=1066634 20 August 2016 Record 4 January 2009 Portuguese Quique Flores said, "We played very poorly, weak in all aspects, especially offensively".Quique: "Jogo mau em todos os aspectos" Quique: "Awful game in all aspects" http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/quique-jogo-mau-em-todos-os-aspectos.html 2 February 2016 Record 4 January 2009 Portuguese Benfica rebounded with an away win in Guimarães in the first match day of the Taça da Liga. Katsouranis headed in the first goal in the ninth minute, and Carlos Martins added a second goal in the 82nd minute.V. Guimarães-Benfica, 0-2 (Katsouranis 9' e Carlos Martins 81') http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/taca-da-liga/detalhe/v-guimaraes-benfica-0-2-katsouranis-9-e-carlos-martins-81.html 2 February 2016 Record 7 January 2009 Portuguese https://web.archive.org/web/20160307133355/http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/taca-da-liga/detalhe/v-guimaraes-benfica-0-2-katsouranis-9-e-carlos-martins-81.html 7 March 2016 dead dmy-all On 11 January, Benfica defeated Braga at the Estádio da Luz. At half-time, David Luiz headed in a controversial winner,Benfica-Sp. Braga, 1-0 (David Luiz 45'+2) http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/sp--braga/detalhe/benfica-sp-braga-1-0-david-luiz-452.html 2 February 2016 Record 11 January 2009 Portuguese and Sánchez Flores said that the club were on course to regain their confidence after a poor past few weeks.Quique Flores: "Estamos a recuperar a confiança" Quique Flores: "We are regaining our trust" http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/quique-flores-estamos-a-recuperar-a-confianca.html 2 February 2016 Record 11 January 2009 Portuguese They won their third match in a row on 14 January, defeating Olhanense 4–1 for the League Cup. Dí Maria scored the final goal in an individual effort dedicated to Diego Maradona, who was present.Benfica-Olhanense, 4-1 (Nuno Gomes 25', Jorge Ribeiro 29', Sidnei 62', Di María 88'; Djalmir 13') http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/taca-da-liga/detalhe/benfica-olhanense-4-1-nuno-gomes-25-jorge-ribeiro-29-sidnei-62-di-maria-88-djalmir-13.html 2 February 2016 Record 14 January 2009 Portuguese https://web.archive.org/web/20160307090231/http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/taca-da-liga/detalhe/benfica-olhanense-4-1-nuno-gomes-25-jorge-ribeiro-29-sidnei-62-di-maria-88-djalmir-13.html 7 March 2016 dead dmy-all On 17 January, Benfica confirmed a place in the semi-finals of the League Cup with a one-nil win against Belenenses. The goal was scored by Katsouranis, assisted by Di María.Benfica vence Belenenses Benfica beats Belenenses http://www.jn.pt/desporto/interior/benfica-vence-belenenses-1073296.html?id=1073296 20 August 2016 Jornal de Noticias 17 January 2009 Portuguese The following Friday, Benfica faced Beleneses for the second time in a week. They had less success, losing two points in a goalless draw.Belenenses-Benfica, 0-0 http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/belenenses-benfica-0-0.html 2 February 2016 Record 23 January 2009 Portuguese Sánchez Flores said that Benfica could have won, and the draw was a poor result.Quique Flores: "Podíamos ter ganho" Quique Flores: "We could have won" http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/quique-flores-podiamos-ter-ganho.html 2 February 2016 Record 23 January 2009 Portuguese The club ended the month with a home win against Rio Ave. Mantorras scored the only goal in the 70th minute, three minutes after entering the game.Benfica-Rio Ave, 1-0 (Mantorras 70') http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/rio-ave/detalhe/benfica-rio-ave-1-0-mantorras-70.html 2 February 2016 Record 31 January 2009 Portuguese Now a squad player after several injury-plagued seasons, he was regarded as a super-sub; 12 of his 28 Benfica goals came from the bench.Santorras SaintTorras http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/santorras.html 2 February 2016 Record 1 February 2009 Portuguese February–March In February, Benfica's schedule included two difficult away matches against Porto and Sporting.A época em 18 dias The season in just 18 days http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/a-epoca-em-18-dias.html 2 February 2016 Record 4 February 2009 Portuguese They began the month with the semi-final of the 2008–09 Taça da Liga against Vitória de Guimarães. Benfica scored the opening goal on a Carlos Martins corner kick which Grégory headed into his own net. Near the end of regulation time, Pablo Aimar added the second (his first for the club), and Guimarães responded with a consolation goal.Benfica – V.Guimarães, 2-1 (Gregory 70' p.b. e Aimar 88'; Desmarets 90') http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/taca-da-liga/detalhe/benfica---vguimaraes-2-1-gregory-70-pb-e-aimar-88-desmarets-90.html 2 February 2016 Record 4 February 2009 Portuguese https://web.archive.org/web/20160307091742/http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/taca-da-liga/detalhe/benfica---vguimaraes-2-1-gregory-70-pb-e-aimar-88-desmarets-90.html 7 March 2016 dead dmy-all Four days later, Benfica played Porto at the Estádio do Dragão in a game between the top two teams on the league table. They scored first through Hassan Yebda, who headed in a corner kick from José Antonio Reyes. In the second half, Benfica held Porto until the 72nd minute, when Pedro Proença signalled a controversial penalty by Yebda on Lisandro López. Lucho González converted it for a 1–1 draw.FC Porto-Benfica, 1-1 (Lucho 72' gp; Yebda 45'+1) http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/fc-porto/detalhe/fc-porto-benfica-1-1-lucho-72-gp-yebda-451.html 2 February 2016 Record 8 February 2009 Portuguese Sánchez Flores was satisfied, because the club played well and controlled the game.Quique Flores: "Satisfeito com atitude da equipa" Quique Flores: "I am pleased with my players attitude" http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/quique-flores-satisfeito-com-atitude-da-equipa.html 2 February 2016 Record 8 February 2009 Portuguese The result kept Porto on top of the league table by one point.Águia agarra Dragão Eagle grabs Dragon http://www.jn.pt/desporto/interior/aguia-agarra-dragao-1139763.html?id=1139763 20 August 2016 Jornal de Noticias 9 February 2009 Portuguese On 15 February, Benfica hosted Paços de Ferreira. The scoring came in the second half – the first goal in the 69th minute, when Aimar assisted Óscar Cardozo. Four minutes later, Ruben Amorim made it 2–0, with Paços reacting immediately with the 2–1 from Ferreira. Near the end, Di María scored the third goal for Benfica, with Paços cutting their lead to 3–2 and then hitting the post.Benfica-P. Ferreira, 3-2 (Cardozo 69', Ruben Amorim 73', Di María 87'; Ferreira 75', Chico Silva 90'+3) http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/p--ferreira/detalhe/benfica-p-ferreira-3-2-cardozo-69-ruben-amorim-73-di-maria-87-ferreira-75-chico-silva-903.html 2 February 2016 Record 15 February 2009 Portuguese https://web.archive.org/web/20160304185218/http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/p--ferreira/detalhe/benfica-p-ferreira-3-2-cardozo-69-ruben-amorim-73-di-maria-87-ferreira-75-chico-silva-903.html 4 March 2016 dead dmy-all Sánchez Flores called it a hard-fought win, with his players' commitment keeping Porto at bay.Quique Flores: "Vitória muito importante" Quique Flores: "Very important win" http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/quique-flores-vitoria-muito-importante.html 2 February 2016 Record 15 February 2009 PortugueseÁguia masoquista apanha susto Masochist Eagle nearly stopped http://www.jn.pt/desporto/interior/aguia-masoquista-apanha-susto--1146060.html?id=1146060 20 August 2016 Jornal de Noticias 16 February 2009 Portuguese Almost a week later, Benfica visited the Estádio José Alvalade to face Sporting. An 11th-minute opener from Liédson was answered with an equaliser from Reyes before half-time. In the second half, Derlei unlocked the draw, scoring Sporting's second goal before Liédson scored a third; Cardozo brought it down to 3–2, and the clock ran out three minutes later.Sporting-Benfica, 3-2 (Liedson 11', 82', Derlei 47'; Reyes 37' g.p., Cardozo 90') http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/sporting/detalhe/sporting-benfica-3-2-liedson-11-82-derlei-47-reyes-37-gp-cardozo-90.html 2 February 2016 Record 21 February 2009 Portuguese Benfica's second league loss had troubling consequences; Sporting was tied for second place with 37 points, and Porto had a four-point lead.Sporting vence Benfica e deixa F. C. Porto mais líder Sporting beats Benfica and leaves Porto further ahead http://www.jn.pt/desporto/interior/sporting-vence-benfica-e-deixa-f-c-porto-mais-lider-1151383.html?id=1151383 20 August 2016 Jornal de Notícias 21 February 2009 Portuguese The club finished February with a home win against Leixões. Élvis opened with an own goal for Benfica. Nuno Gomes later scored the second (his fifth goal of the season), with Leixões replying with a goal of their own. Despite playing with ten men, Benfica held Leixões back and won.Benfica-Leixões, 2-1 (Elvis 16' npb, Nuno Gomes 67'; Rodrigo 74') http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/benfica-leixoes-2-1-elvis-16-npb-nuno-gomes-67-rodrigo-74.html 2 February 2016 Record 27 February 2009 Portuguese To Sánchez Flores, the match was intense and difficult, but the victory put pressure on their opponents (who faced each other in following day).Quique realça pressão aos adversários Quique highlights pressure on opponents http://www.jn.pt/desporto/interior/quique-realca-pressao-aos-adversarios-1156299.html?id=1156299 20 August 2016 Jornal de Notícias 28 February 2009 Portuguese With a goalless draw in the game between Porto and Sporting, Benfica finished February with 40 points, two fewer than Porto.Águia sofre para vencer um grande Eagle suffers to beat rivals http://www.jn.pt/desporto/interior/aguia-sofre-para-vencer-um-grande--1156274.html?id=1156274 20 August 2016 Jornal de Notícias 28 February 2009 Portuguese 280px|thumbnail|left|alt=Five trophies on display|The 2009 Taça da Liga (top left) was Benfica's first trophy since August 2005. March was less busy than February, with only three matches. Benfica's first was at the Municipal José Bento Pessoa against Naval. The club took the lead with a third-minute goal from Aimar. Naval evened the score at the start of the second half with a goal by Marcelinho, but Katsouranis scored Benfica's second goal.Benfica passou a sua "final" na Figueira da Foz sem glória Benfica passes their "final in the Figueira da Foz http://www.jn.pt/desporto/interior/benfica-passou-a-sua-final-na-figueira-da-foz-sem-gloria-1163767.html?id=1163767 20 August 2016 Jornal de Notícias 9 March 2009 Portuguese Miguel Vítor, who assisted the goal, told the media that Benfica wanted to keep winning in case Porto slipped.Miguel Vítor: "Continuar a ganhar até surgir um deslize" Miguel Vítor: "Keep on winning until there is a slip" http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/miguel-vitor-continuar-a-ganhar-ate-surgir-um-deslize.html 3 February 2016 Record 9 March 2009 Portuguese On 14 March, the club hosted Vitória de Guimarães in their third game of 2009. Benfica was caught off-guard, losing 1–0 on a 66th-minute goal from Roberto.Guimarães derrota Benfica na Luz Guimarães defeats Benfica in Luz http://www.jn.pt/desporto/interior/guimaraes-derrota-benfica-na-luz-1170019.html?id=1170019 20 August 2016 Jornal de Notícias 14 March 2009 Portuguese Sánchez Flores called the defeat an "accident that sometimes happens", and said his team was focused on the remaining eight games.Quique: "São acidentes que acontecem" Quique: "It's accidents that happen" http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/quique-sao-acidentes-que-acontecem.html 3 February 2016 Record 14 March 2009 Portuguese The loss impacted the league standings; Benfica dropped to third place, and Porto had a five-point lead over Sporting.Passadeira azul para um novo tetra Blue crosswalk for another Tetra http://www.jn.pt/desporto/interior/passadeira-azul-para-um-novo-tetra-1170695.html?id=1170695 20 August 2016 Jornal de Notícias 16 March 2009 Portuguese A week later, Benfica and Sporting played the 2009 Taça da Liga final at the Estádio do Algarve.Taça da Liga: Dérbi da honra http://www.jn.pt/desporto/interior/taca-da-liga-derbi-da-honra-1177364.html?id=1177364 20 August 2016 Jornal de Notícias 21 March 2009 Portuguese After a goalless first half, Sporting scored the opening goal through Bruno Pereirinha in the 48th minute. Reyes levelled the score for Benfica in the 75th minute, converting a penalty kick. The game was decided on penalties, and the club won their first League Cup.Benfica venceu Sporting na final da Taça da Liga Benfica beat Sporting in Taça da Liga final http://www.jn.pt/desporto/interior/benfica-venceu-sporting-na-final-da-taca-da-liga-1177967.html?id=1177967 20 August 2016 Jornal de Notícias 21 March 2009 Portuguese With his first trophy at Benfica, Sánchez Flores called the win fair and the club had their sights on recovering second place and winning the league championship.Quique Flores: "Considero o resultado justo" Quique Flores: "The result is fair" http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/taca-da-liga/detalhe/quique-flores-considero-o-resultado-justo.html 3 February 2016 Record 21 March 2009 Portuguese https://web.archive.org/web/20160307124839/http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/taca-da-liga/detalhe/quique-flores-considero-o-resultado-justo.html 7 March 2016 dead dmy-allAgora a Liga http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/agora-a-liga.html 3 February 2016 Record 23 March 2009 Portuguese April–May Club competition paused in the last week of March, resuming over the first weekend of April. Benfica's first game was a visit to nearby Estádio da Reboleira to meet Estrela da Amadora. Referee Hugo Miguel called three penalties in the first half-hour: two for Benfica and one for Estrela. Cardozo converted both (in the fifth and 16th minutes), and Silvestre Varela scored for Estrela in a 2–1 final result.Penáltis polémicos mantêm Benfica a sonhar Controversial penalties keep Benfica afloat http://www.jn.pt/desporto/interior/penaltis-polemicos-mantem-benfica-a-sonhar-1192522.html?id=1192522 20 August 2016 Jornal de Notícias 5 April 2009 Portuguese Sánchez Flores said that although Benfica played poorly, winning was what mattered.Quique flores reconhece má exibição Quique Flores recognized bad game http://www.jn.pt/desporto/interior/quique-flores-reconhece-ma-exibicao-1192631.html?id=1192631 20 August 2016 Jornal de Notícias 6 April 2009 Portuguese On 11 April, Benfica hosted Académica in another home loss; a 23rd-minute goal by William Tiero secured Académica's second consecutive away win against Benfica.Benfica perde em casa e hipoteca luta pelo título Benfica loses at home and leverages their league race http://www.jn.pt/desporto/interior/benfica-perde-em-casa-e-hipoteca-luta-pelo-titulo-1199211.html?id=1199211 20 August 2016 Jornal de Notícias 11 April 2009 Portuguese The loss ended any hope of winning the title, since Porto had an eight-point lead. The race for second place (and a UEFA Champions League spot) also experienced a setback, since Sporting now had a four-point lead. The fans turned on Sánchez Flores, waving white handkerchiefs in the traditional request for resignation.Novo chumbo de Quique Quique flunks again http://www.jn.pt/desporto/interior/novo-chumbo-de-quique-1199463.html?id=1199463 20 August 2016 Jornal de Notícias 12 April 2009 Portuguese The Spaniard realised that winning the Primeira Liga was nearly impossible, and Benfica should focus on qualifying for the Champions League.O título está muito mais difícil The league title is much more difficult http://www.jn.pt/desporto/interior/o-titulo-esta-muito-mais-dificil-1199467.html?id=1199467 20 August 2016 Jornal de Notícias 12 April 2009 Portuguese The club rebounded with an away win against Vitória de Setúbal. They started strong, scoring three goals in the first half for a final score of 4–0. Cardozo and Nuno Gomes scored two goals apiece.Benfica tira barriga de misérias Benfica wins comfortably http://www.jn.pt/desporto/interior/benfica-tira-barriga-de-miserias-1206485.html?id=1206485 20 August 2016 Jornal de Notícias 20 April 2009 Portuguese A week after Setúbal, Benfica hosted Marítimo for April's final match. By the 38th minute, the club was winning 3–0. Marítimo reacted, cutting Benfica's lead to 3–2 in the 60th minute, but the club defended their lead.Benfica bate Marítimo Benfica beats Marítimo http://www.jn.pt/desporto/interior/benfica-bate-maritimo-1213191.html?id=1213191 20 August 2016 Jornal de Notícias 26 April 2009 Portuguese Although Sánchez Flores was happy with the three points, he said that Benfica should have better controlled the game.Quique Flores: "Controlo podia ter sido melhor" Quique Flores: "Control could have been better" http://www.jn.pt/desporto/interior/quique-flores-controlo-podia-ter-sido-melhor-1213208.html?id=1213208 20 August 2016 Jornal de Notícias 27 April 2009 Portuguese In May, Benfica had four matches to gain four points on Sporting. The first was at the Estádio da Madeira with Nacional. Knowing that Sporting had lost points to Académica, Benfica hoped to narrow the gsp between them to two points. After an uneventful first half, in the 56th minute Nenê scored the opening goal for Nacional. Eight minutes later, Rúben Micael extended the lead, with Reyes reducing it in the 67th minute. Benfica pressed unsuccessfully for the equaliser before Nacional scored again with Miguel Fidalgo.Benfica diz adeus à Champions Benfica says goodbye to the Champions League http://www.jn.pt/desporto/interior/benfica-diz-adeus-a-champions-1219804.html?id=1219804 20 August 2016 Jornal de Notícias 3 May 2009 Portuguese Sánchez Flores realised that winning the league title was now impossible."É impossível" que o Benfica lute pelo título "It is impossible" that Benfica fights for the title http://www.jn.pt/desporto/interior/e-impossivel-que-o-benfica-lute-pelo-titulo--1219777.html?id=1219777 20 August 2016 Jornal de Notícias 2 May 2009 Portuguese On 9 May, Benfica met Trofense at home. Valdomiro scored first for the visitors in the 31st minute before Benfica scored twice in two minutes, reaching half-time with a 2–1 lead. In the second half, Paulinho tied the score for Trofense.Quique perdeu o crédito Quique lost all credit http://www.jn.pt/desporto/interior/quique-perdeu-o-credito-1227035.html?id=1227035 20 August 2016 Jornal de Noticias 10 May 2009 Portuguese Sporting won that day, so Benfica trailed by seven points with two match days left and could not qualify for the Champions League.Champions chega com sofrimento Champions arrives with grief http://www.jn.pt/desporto/interior/champions-chega-com-sofrimento-1227129.html?id=1227129 20 August 2016 Jornal de Noticias 9 May 2009 Portuguese Sánchez Flores said, "I know when to arrive and when to leave. I do not want to be a problem for the club."Quique: "É importante saber chegar e sair" Quique: "It is important to know when to arrive and when to leave" http://www.jn.pt/desporto/interior/quique-e-importante-saber-chegar-e-sair-1227450.html?id=1227450 20 August 2016 Record 10 May 2009 Portuguese Playing out the schedule, Benfica first visited the Municipal de Braga. They won 3–1, ending a five-year winless streak there.Benfica garante terceiro lugar Benfica secures third place http://www.jn.pt/desporto/interior/benfica-garante-terceiro-lugar-1235718.html?id=1235718 20 August 2016 Jornal de Noticias 17 May 2009 Portuguese The victory was against Jorge Jesus, widely reported as Sánchez Flores' successor.Quem quiser Jesus tem de pagar um milhão Who wants Jesus has to pay a million http://www.jn.pt/desporto/interior/quem-quiser-jesus-tem-de-pagar-um-milhao-1236280.html?id=1236280 20 August 2016 Jornal de Notícias 18 May 2009 Portuguese A week later, Benfica ended their campaign with a 3–1 win against Belenenses.Benfica triunfa no último jogo de Quique Benfica wins in Quique's last game http://www.jn.pt/desporto/interior/benfica-triunfa-no-ultimo-jogo-de-quique-1242280.html?id=1242280 20 August 2016 Jornal de Notícias 24 May 2009 Portuguese Sánchez Flores analysed the club's season: "They asked me to improve the team and I did. But we all know what happened last year; we should set realistic goals. Second place was possible, but we failed in the final third. I won a title and fought for another."Quique vai falar com Filipe Vieira Quique will speak to Vieira http://www.jn.pt/desporto/interior/quique-vai-falar-com-filipe-vieira-1242284.html?id=1242284 20 August 2016 Record 24 May 2009 Portuguese A short time later, he and the club terminated his contract.Benfica confirma rescisão com Quique Flores Benfica confirms Quique's release https://expresso.sapo.pt/desporto/benfica-confirma-rescisao-com-quique-flores=f519779 3 February 2016 Expresso 8 June 2009 Portuguese 13 November 2017 https://web.archive.org/web/20171113165717/http://expresso.sapo.pt/desporto/benfica-confirma-rescisao-com-quique-flores=f519779 dead Competitions #CCFFCC Win 1px solid #AAAAAA #FFFFCC Draw 1px solid #AAAAAA #FFCCCC Loss 1px solid #AAAAAA #CCCCCC Postponed 1px solid #AAAAAA Overall record Competition First match Last match RecordGWDLGFGAGDWin %Source Primeira Liga 24 August 2008 23 May 2009 30 17 8 5 54 32 yes Tovar, Rui. p. 650 Taça de Portugal 19 October 2008 13 December 2008 3 1 2 0 3 0 yes Tovar, Rui. p. 650 Taça da Liga 7 January 2008 21 March 2009 5 4 1 0 10 3 yes Tovar, Rui. p. 650 UEFA Cup 18 September 2008 18 December 2008 6 1 1 4 6 12 yes Tovar, Rui. p. 650 Total 44 23 12 9 73 47 yes Primeira Liga 2008–09 Primeira Liga League table BEN Results by round table b Round Ground A/H/A/H/A/H/A/H/A/H/A/H/A/H/A/H/A/H/A/H/A/H/A/H/A/H/A/H/A/H Result D/D/W/W/D/W/W/W/W/D/W/D/L/W/D/W/D/W/L/W/W/L/W/L/W/W/L/D/W/W Position 6/10/7/5/4/3/2/2/2/2/1/1/2/1/2/2/2/2/2/2/2/3/3/3/3/3/3/3/3/3 Home Away green2 Win yellow2 Draw red2 Loss 1st 2nd 3rd red1 ForaDeJogo.net Matches 1 24 August 2008 21:15 Rio Ave 1–1 https://www.foradejogo.net/match.php?match=200915400010108 Benfica Semedo 55 Nuno Gomes 56 Vila do Conde Estádio do Rio Ave FC 10,426 Carlos Xistra D 2 30 August 2008 20:45 Benfica 1–1 https://www.foradejogo.net/match.php?match=200915400010208 Porto Cardozo 56Katsouranis 2 11 59 L. González 10 pen. Lisbon Estádio da Luz 53,496 Jorge Sousa D 3 22 September 2008 21:00 Paços de Ferreira 3–4 https://www.foradejogo.net/match.php?match=200915400010307 Benfica Ozéia 13Rui Miguel 63William 85 Nuno Gomes 6Pereira 31Cardozo 43 pen.Ribeiro 76 Paços de Ferreira Estádio da Mata Real 3,784 Bruno Paixão W 4 27 September 2008 20:45 Benfica 2–0 https://www.foradejogo.net/match.php?match=200915400010407 Sporting CP Reyes 67Sidnei 71 Lisbon Estádio da Luz 60,062 Duarte Gomes W 5 6 October 2008 21:00 Leixões 1–1 https://www.foradejogo.net/match.php?match=200915400010506 Benfica Wesley 88 Cardozo 32 Leixões Estádio do Mar 8,500 Olegário Benquerença D 6 26 October 2008 20:00 Benfica 2–1 https://www.foradejogo.net/match.php?match=200915400010606 Naval Luisão 71Cardozo 86 Marcelinho 82 Lisbon Estádio da Luz 45,714 Rui Costa W 7 2 November 2008 20:45 Vitória de Guimarães 1–2 https://www.foradejogo.net/match.php?match=200915400010705 Benfica Douglas 40 Suazo 14Sidnei 19Reyes 2 42 45 Guimarães Estádio D. Afonso Henriques 26,812 Carlos Xistra W 8 16 November 2008 19:30 Benfica 1–0 https://www.foradejogo.net/match.php?match=200915400010805 Estrela da Amadora Sidnei 50 Lisbon Estádio da Luz 36,529 João Capela W 9 23 November 2008 20:15 Académica 0–2 https://www.foradejogo.net/match.php?match=200915400010904 Benfica Amorim 31Cardozo 48 Coimbra Estádio Cidade de Coimbra 18,980 Pedro Proença W 10 1 December 2008 20:30 Benfica 2–2 https://www.foradejogo.net/match.php?match=200915400011004 Vitória de Setúbal Katsouranis 47Suazo 59 Laionel 35Anderson do Ó 90Sandro 2 75 90 Lisbon Estádio da Luz 25,921 Vasco Santos D 11 7 December 2008 19:15 Marítimo 0–6 https://www.foradejogo.net/match.php?match=200915400011103 Benfica Marcos 0 17 Reyes 20 pen.Suazo 42 85Luisão 66Nuno Gomes 86 90 Funchal Estádio dos Barreiros 8,127 Artur Soares Dias W 12 22 December 2008 19:45 Benfica 0–0 https://www.foradejogo.net/match.php?match=200915400011203 Nacional Alonso 78 Lisbon Estádio da Luz 36,399 Pedro Henriques D 13 4 January 2009 20:30 Trofense 2–0 https://www.foradejogo.net/match.php?match=200915400011302 Benfica Reguila 45Barbosa 79 Binya 2 45 64 Trofa, Portugal Estádio do Clube Desportivo Trofense 4,977 Jorge Sousa L 14 11 January 2009 18:30 Benfica 1–0 https://www.foradejogo.net/match.php?match=200915400011402 Braga David Luiz 45 Lisbon Estádio da Luz 32,837 Paulo Baptista W 15 21 January 2009 21:45 Belenenses 0–0 https://www.foradejogo.net/match.php?match=200915400011501 Benfica Vítor 2 59 82 Lisbon Estádio do Restelo 8,548 Elmano Santos D 16 31 January 2009 19:45 Benfica 1–0 https://www.foradejogo.net/match.php?match=200915400011608 Rio Ave Mantorras 70 Lisbon Estádio da Luz 21,398 Rui Costa W 17 8 February 2009 19:45 Porto 1–1 https://www.foradejogo.net/match.php?match=200915400011708 Benfica L. González 77 pen. Yebda 45 Porto Estádio do Dragão 50,110 Pedro Proença D 18 15 February 2009 20:45 Benfica 3–2 https://www.foradejogo.net/match.php?match=200915400011807 Paços de Ferreira Cardozo 69Amorim 73Di María 87 Ferreira 76Silva 90 Lisbon Estádio da Luz 33,378 Cosme Machado W 19 21 February 2009 20:00 Sporting CP 3–2 https://www.foradejogo.net/match.php?match=200915400011907 Benfica Liédson 11 82Derlei 47 Reyes 36 pen.Cardozo 90 Lisbon Estádio de Alvalade 44,863 Olegário Benquerença L 20 27 February 2009 21:00 Benfica 2–1 https://www.foradejogo.net/match.php?match=200915400012006 Leixões Élvis 16 o.g.Nuno Gomes 67 Rodrigo Silva 74 Lisbon Estádio da Luz 31,431 Lucílio Baptista W 21 8 March 2009 20:15 Naval 1–2 https://www.foradejogo.net/match.php?match=200915400012106 Benfica Marcelinho 54 Aimar 3Katsouranis 73 Figueira da Foz Estádio Municipal José Bento Pessoa 8,214 João Ferreira W 22 14 March 2009 18:45 Benfica 0–1 https://www.foradejogo.net/match.php?match=200915400012205 Vitória de Guimarães Roberto 66Cícero 0 91 Lisbon Estádio da Luz 47,102 Jorge Sousa L 23 5 April 2009 20:45 Estrela da Amadora 1–2 https://www.foradejogo.net/match.php?match=200915400012305 Benfica Varela 29 pen. Cardozo 5 pen. 15 pen. Amadora Estádio José Gomes 3,230 Hugo Miguel W 24 11 April 2009 19:00 Benfica 0–1 https://www.foradejogo.net/match.php?match=200915400012404 Académica Tiero 23Cabral 2 56 73 Lisbon Estádio da Luz 27,747 Marco Ferreira L 25 19 April 2009 20:15 Vitória de Setúbal 0–4 https://www.foradejogo.net/match.php?match=200915400012504 Benfica Nuno Gomes 25 70Cardozo 27 45 Setúbal Estádio do Bonfim 5,690 Artur Soares Dias W 26 26 April 2009 20:00 Benfica 3–2 https://www.foradejogo.net/match.php?match=200915400012603 Marítimo David Luiz 29Cardozo 35 38 Marcinho 44Bruno 60 Lisbon Estádio da Luz 32,408 Rui Costa W 27 2 May 2009 20:45 Nacional 3–1 https://www.foradejogo.net/match.php?match=200915400012703 Benfica Nenê 56Micael 64Fidalgo 90 Reyes 67 Funchal Estádio da Madeira 4,175 Jorge Sousa L 28 9 May 2009 19:00 Benfica 2–2 https://www.foradejogo.net/match.php?match=200915400012802 Trofense Cardozo 35 38 Valdomiro 31Paulinho 59 Lisbon Estádio da Luz 20,187 João Ferreira D 29 17 May 2009 19:00 Braga 1–3 https://www.foradejogo.net/match.php?match=200915400012902 Benfica Aguiar 90 Cardozo 6Di María 12Urretaviscaya 47Yebda 2 62 67 Braga Estádio Municipal de Braga 14,056 Artur Soares Dias W 30 23 May 2009 19:45 Benfica 3–1 https://www.foradejogo.net/match.php?match=200915400013001 Belenenses Cardozo 21Bastos 63Mantorras 91 Silas 3Saulo 0 42 Lisbon Estádio da Luz 30,972 Cosme Machado W Taça de Portugal 2008–09 Taça de Portugal Fourth round 19 October 2009 20:30 Benfica 0–0 5–3 https://www.foradejogo.net/match.php?match=2009154500197270 Penafiel Reyes Di María Katsouranis Amorim Suazo Vítor Quim Dias Vagner Lisbon Estádio da Luz Paulo Baptista D Fifth round 10 November 2008 20:30 Benfica 3–0 Desportivo de Aves https://www.foradejogo.net/match.php?match=2009154500196110 Yebda 3Luisão 19Pereira 29 Lisbon Estádio da Luz 14,000 Elmano Santos W Sixth round 13 December 2008 20:45 Leixões 0–0 5–4 Wesley Zé Manel Morais Laranjeiro Chumbinho https://www.foradejogo.net/match.php?match=2009154500105050 Benfica Cardozo Katsouranis Nuno Gomes David Luiz Reyes Leixões Estádio do Mar 7,000 Olegário Benquerença D Taça da Liga 2008–09 Taça da Liga Group stage 1 7 January 2009 20:45 Vitória de Guimarães 0–2 https://www.foradejogo.net/match.php?match=2009154700197030101 Benfica Katsouranis 8Martins 80 Guimarães Estádio D. Afonso Henriques 8,371 Olegário Benquerença W 2 14 January 2009 19:30 Benfica 4–1 https://www.foradejogo.net/match.php?match=2009154700197030201 Olhanense Nuno Gomes 25Ribeiro 29Sidnei 67Di María 87 Djalmir 13 Lisbon Estádio da Luz 10,369 Marco Ferreira W 3 17 January 2009 16:00 Benfica 1–0 https://www.foradejogo.net/match.php?match=2009154700197030302 Belenenses Katsouranis 44 Lisbon Estádio da Luz 35,022 Bruno Paixão W Semi-final 4 February 2009 21:15 UTC Benfica 2–1 https://www.foradejogo.net/match.php?match=2009154700103010 Vitória de Guimarães Grégory 69 o.g.Aimar 87 Desmarets 89 Estádio da Luz Lisbon 13,648 Artur Soares Dias W Final 21 March 2009 19:45 UTC Sporting CP 1–1 https://www.foradejogo.net/match.php?match=2009154700101011 Benfica Pereirinha 48P. Silva 2 21 74 Reyes 75 pen. Estádio Algarve Faro 27,700 Lucílio Baptista D Romagnoli Rochemback Moutinho Derlei Postiga 2–3 Aimar Cardozo Katsouranis David Luiz Martins UEFA Cup 2008–09 UEFA Cup First round First leg 18 September 2008 21:00 CET Napoli ITA 3–2 https://www.uefa.com/uefaeuropaleague/season=2009/matches/round=15284/match=303929/index.html POR Benfica Vitale 18Denis 19Maggio 54 Suazo 16Luisão 59 Stadio San Paolo Naples 49,520 Bjorn Kuipers L Second leg 2 October 2008 21:15 CET Benfica POR 2–0 https://www.uefa.com/uefaeuropaleague/season=2009/matches/round=15284/match=303969/index.html ITA Napoli Reyes 57Nuno Gomes 84 Estádio da Luz Lisbon 56,520 Wolfgang Stark W Group stage 2008–09 UEFA Cup group stage#Group B Group B BEN 1 23 October 2008 20:30 UTC+2 Hertha BSC GER 1–1 https://www.uefa.com/uefaeuropaleague/season=2009/matches/round=15285/match=304170/index.html/index.html POR Benfica Pantelić 74 Di María 51 Olympiastadion Berlin 26,144 Paul Allaerts (Belgium) D 2 6 November 2008 19:30 UTC+0 Benfica POR 0–2 https://www.uefa.com/uefaeuropaleague/season=2009/matches/round=15285/match=304186/index.html TUR Galatasaray Aşık 51Karan 69 Estádio da Luz Lisbon 47,000 Martin Atkinson (England) L 3 27 November 2008 20:45 UTC+2 Olympiacos GRE 5–1 https://www.uefa.com/uefaeuropaleague/season=2009/matches/round=15285/match=304202/index.html POR Benfica Galletti 1Patsatzoglou 17Diogo 24 53Belluschi 44 David Luiz 33 Karaiskakis Stadium Athens 30,185 Stéphane Lannoy (France) L 4 18 December 2008 19:45 UTC+0 Benfica POR 0–1 https://www.uefa.com/uefaeuropaleague/season=2009/matches/round=15285/match=304243/index.html UKR Metalist Kharkiv Rykun 84 Estádio da Luz Lisbon 9,570 Bernhard Brugger (Austria) L Friendlies 2008 07 19 y 17:15 CET (UTC+01) Estoril 1–1 November 2025 Benfica Bruno Miguel 64 Yebda 12 Estádio António Coimbra da Mota Estoril, Portugal D 2008 07 25 y 19:30 CET (UTC+01) Guadiana Trophy Benfica 2–3 November 2025 Blackburn Rovers Urretavizcaya 7Makukula 67 Pedersen 32Roberts 35Emerton 50 Complexo Desportivo de Vila Real de Santo António Vila Real de Santo António, Portugal L 2008 07 27 y 19:30 CET (UTC+01) Guadiana Trophy Sporting CP 2–0 November 2025 Benfica Djaló 56Derlei 71 Complexo Desportivo de Vila Real de Santo António Vila Real de Santo António, Portugal Nuno Almeida L 2008 08 2 y 19:30 CET (UTC+01) Guimarães Trophy Benfica 2–2 November 2025 Paris Saint-Germain Makukula 74Cardozo 80 Pancrate 38 57 Estádio D. Afonso Henriques Guimarães, Portugal D 2008 08 4 y 19:30 CET (UTC+01) Guimarães Trophy Vitória de Guimarães 1–2 November 2025 Benfica Moreno 67 Cardozo 19 pen.Momha 22 o.g. Estádio D. Afonso Henriques Guimarães, Portugal W 2008 08 9 y 19:00 CET (UTC+01) Benfica 1–0 November 2025 Feyenoord Cardozo 69 Estádio da Luz Lisbon, Portugal Pedro Henriques W 2008 08 15 y 19:30 CET (UTC+01) Eusébio Cup Benfica 0–0 November 2025 Inter Milan Aimar Bastos Reyes Nuno Gomes David Luiz Nélson 4–5 Maxwell Balotelli Stanković Ibrahimović Burdisso Cambiasso Estádio da Luz Lisbon, Portugal 54,001 Bruno Paixão D Player statistics The squad for the season consisted of the players in the tables below and staff members Quique Flores (manager), Fran Escribá (assistant manager), Emilio Álvarez (goalkeeper coach), Paco Ayestaran (fitness coach), and Diamantino Miranda and Fernando Chalana as links to club management.Tovar, Rui. p. 650November 2025 Note 1: Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules. Players may hold more than one non-FIFA nationality. Note 2: Players with squad numbers marked ‡ joined the club during the 2008–09 season via transfer, with more details in the following section. Primeira Liga Taça de Portugal Taça da Liga UEFA Cup 1 POR José Moreira GK 14 -12 2 0 0 0 1 -1 4 BRA Luisão DF 21 2 3 1 5 0 4 1 5 BRA Léo DF 2 0 2 0 0 0 1 0 6‡ ESP José Antonio Reyes FW 24 4 2 0 4 1 5 1 7 PAR Óscar Cardozo FW 26 17 2 0 4 0 3 0 8 GRE Kostas Katsouranis MF 24 2 2 0 5 2 4 0 9 ANG Mantorras FW 5 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 10 ARG Pablo Aimar MF 22 1 2 0 4 1 1 0 11‡ GNQ Javier Balboa FW 10 0 3 0 1 0 3 0 12 POR Quim GK 16 -19 0 0 2 -2 5 -11 13‡ BRA Fellipe Bastos DF 2 1 0 0 1 0 1 0 14 URU Maxi Pereira DF 28 1 2 1 5 0 6 0 15‡ POR Ruben Amorim MF 26 2 2 0 5 0 2 0 16‡ URU Jonathan Urretaviscaya MF 10 1 2 0 0 0 5 0 18 CMR Gilles Binya MF 7 0 3 0 0 0 4 0 19 POR Ariza Makukula FW 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 20 ARG Ángel Di María MF 24 2 1 0 5 1 5 1 21 POR Nuno Gomes FW 24 7 1 0 2 1 6 1 23 BRA David Luiz DF 19 1 2 0 4 0 2 1 24‡ POR Carlos Martins MF 24 0 1 0 5 1 5 0 25‡ POR Jorge Ribeiro DF 15 1 0 0 2 1 4 0 26‡ ALG Hassan Yebda MF 25 1 1 1 3 0 5 0 27‡ BRA Sidnei DF 24 3 3 0 2 1 6 0 28 POR Miguel Vítor DF 16 0 1 0 5 0 1 0 30‡ HON David Suazo FW 12 4 3 0 3 0 4 1 31 BRA Marcelo Moretto GK 0 0 1 0 0 0 3 -2 |} Transfers In Entry date Position Player From club Fee Ref14 December 2007Arrived under-age, had to wait to register as professional player due to FIFA regulations CM Fellipe Bastos BotafogoUndisclosedFellipe Bastos flies in to Benfica https://www.uefa.com/uefaeuropaleague/news/01c8-0e6ed99e9fad-950abc82a2e9-1000--fellipe-bastos-flies-in-to-benfica/ 3 February 2016 UEFA 14 December 200718 April 2008 CM Ruben Amorim BelenensesUndisclosed29 May 2008 DM Hassan Yebda Le MansFree25 June 2008 RW Javier Balboa Real Madrid€4M25 June 2008 AM Carlos Martins Recreativo de Huelva€3M12 July 2008 LW Urretavizcaya River Plate UruguayUndisclosedUrreta já cá está Urreta has arrived http://www.record.xl.pt/Futebol/Nacional/1a_liga/Benfica/interior.aspx?content_id=349923 4 February 2016 Record 12 July 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20150402120311/http://www.record.xl.pt/Futebol/Nacional/1a_liga/Benfica/interior.aspx?content_id=349923 2 April 2015 Portuguese17 July 2008 AM Pablo Aimar Real Zaragoza€6.5M18 July 2008 AM Ivan Santos BoavistaUndisclosedIvan Santos contratado Ivan Santos signed http://www.record.xl.pt/Futebol/Nacional/1a_liga/Benfica/interior.aspx?content_id=350618 4 February 2016 Record 18 July 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20150402123848/http://www.record.xl.pt/Futebol/Nacional/1a_liga/Benfica/interior.aspx?content_id=350618 2 April 2015 Portuguese1 July 2008 LB Jorge Ribeiro BoavistaFree24 July 2008 CB Sidnei Internacional€5M In by loan Entry date Position Player From club Exit date Ref7 August 2008 LW José Antonio Reyes Atlético Madrid30 June 200928 August 2008 ST David Suazo Inter Milan30 June 2009 Out Entry date Position Player To club Fee Ref9 May 2008 AM Rui Costa NoneRetiredA despedida do Maestro Rui Costa The departure of the Maestro Rui Costa http://www.record.xl.pt/jornal_oficial/exclusivos/interior.aspx?content_id=342189 4 February 2016 Record 9 May 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20150402201636/http://www.record.xl.pt/jornal_oficial/exclusivos/interior.aspx?content_id=342189 2 April 2015 Portuguese4 June 2008 GK Hans-Jörg Butt Bayern MunichFreeHans-Jörg Butt agrees switch to Bayern https://fcbayern.com/en/news/2008/06/hans-jorg-butt-agrees-switch-to-bayern 20 August 2016 Bayern Munich 4 June 200812 June 2008 CB Sreten Sretenović Politehnica TimișoaraUndisclosedRoménia: Timișoara confirma dois portugueses e Sretenovic Romania: Timișoara confirms two Portuguese and Sretenovic http://www.maisfutebol.iol.pt/romenia-timisoara-confirma-dois-portugueses-e-sretenovic 3 February 2016 Mais Futebol 2 June 2008 Portuguese17 June 2008 LB Miguelito Marítimo UndisclosedMiguelito assina pelo Marítimo Miguelito signs with Marítimo http://www.dnoticias.pt/actualidade/desporto/184198-miguelito-assina-pelo-maritimo 3 February 2016 Diário de Noticias 17 June 2008 PortugueseDecember 2021 InternetArchiveBot yes 21 June 2008 LW Cristian Rodríguez Paris Saint-Germain Loan returnCristian Rodríguez descartado Cristian Rodríguez discarded http://www.record.xl.pt/Futebol/Nacional/1a_liga/Benfica/interior.aspx?content_id=347420 4 February 2016 Record 21 June 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20150402172454/http://www.record.xl.pt/Futebol/Nacional/1a_liga/Benfica/interior.aspx?content_id=347420 2 April 2015 Portuguese16 July 2008 RW Paulo Jorge MarítimoUndisclosedMarítimo bring in Benfica trio https://www.uefa.com/news-media/news/01cf-0e6f7a55c0ad-2025404d63eb-1000--maritimo-bring-in-benfica-trio/ 3 February 2016 UEFA 16 July 200816 July 2008 RW Manú MarítimoUndisclosed16 July 2008 CM João Coimbra MarítimoUndisclosed23 July 2008 CB José Fonte Crystal Palace UndisclosedPalace bag Benfica defender Fonte https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/c/crystal_palace/7521976.stm 3 February 2016 BBC Sport 23 July 200824 July 2008 RB Pedro Correia Racing FerrolUndisclosedPedro Correia (ex-Benfica) e Edgar Marcelino no Racing Ferrol Pedro Correia (ex-Benfica) and Edgar Marcelino at Racing Ferrol http://www.maisfutebol.iol.pt/pedro-correia-ex-benfica-e-edgar-marcelino-no-racing-ferrol 3 February 2016 Mais Futebol 24 July 2008 Portuguese29 July 2008 DM Petit 1. FC KölnFree30 July 2008 ST Jaílson CoritibaFreeBrasil: Coritiba anuncia contratação de Jailson (ex-Braga) Brazil: Coritiba announces the signing of Jaílson (ex-Braga) http://www.maisfutebol.iol.pt/noticia.html?id=977092&div_id=1456 3 February 2016 MaisFutebol 30 July 2008 Portuguese 2 April 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150402173300/http://www.maisfutebol.iol.pt/noticia.html?id=977092&div_id=1456 dead31 July 2008 RW Marco Ferreira Ethnikos Piraeus FreeΗ Π.Α.Ε. ΕΘΝΙΚΟΣ ανακοινώνει την απόκτηση του τριαντάχρονου διεθνούς Πορτογάλου επιθετικού (12/03/1978) MARCO FERREIRA από την πορτογαλική BENFICA. Ethnikos announces the signing of 30-year old Marco Ferreira from Benfica http://www.ethnikos.gr/Football-Nea-2008-09/Ferreira_01-08-08.htm 3 February 2016 Ethnikos Piraeus 1 August 2008 Greek 15 December 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20101215025108/http://ethnikos.gr/Football-Nea-2008-09/Ferreira_01-08-08.htm dead6 August 2008 AM Nuno Assis Vitória de GuimarãesUndisclosed11 August 2008 LB Tiago Gomes Osasuna FreeEspanha: Osasuna garante Tiago Gomes (Benfica) a custo zero Spain: Osasuna secures Tiago Gomes (Benfica) on a free transfer http://www.maisfutebol.iol.pt/noticia.html?id=980510&div_id=1456 https://archive.today/20150404122436/http://www.maisfutebol.iol.pt/noticia.html?id=980510&div_id=1456 dead 4 April 2015 3 February 2016 Mais Futebol 11 August 2008 Portuguese27 August 2008 RB Nélson Real BetisUndisclosed13 January 2009 LB Léo SantosFreeBrasileiro Léo já rescindiu contrato Brazilian Léo terminates his contract http://www.record.xl.pt/Futebol/Nacional/1a_liga/Benfica/interior.aspx?content_id=370926 4 February 2016 Record 13 January 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20150402193431/http://www.record.xl.pt/Futebol/Nacional/1a_liga/Benfica/interior.aspx?content_id=370926 2 April 2015 Portuguese Out by loan Entry date Position Player From club Return date Ref19 May 2008 ST Marcel Grêmio31 December 2008Grémio contrata Marcel Marcel signed by Grémio https://www.record.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/benfica/detalhe/gremio-de-porto-alegre-contrata-marcel.html 19 May 2018 Record 19 May 2008 Portuguese17 July 2008 LW Fábio Coentrão Real Zaragoza 30 June 2009Fábio Coentrão cedido ao Saragoça Fábio Coentrão loaned to Saragoça http://www.record.xl.pt/Futebol/Nacional/1a_liga/Benfica/interior.aspx?content_id=350506 4 February 2016 Record 17 July 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20150402103458/http://www.record.xl.pt/Futebol/Nacional/1a_liga/Benfica/interior.aspx?content_id=350506 2 April 2015 Portuguese21 July 2008 AM Freddy Adu Monaco 30 June 2009Freddy Adu emprestado à AS Monaco Freddy Adu loaned to AS Monaco http://www.record.xl.pt/Futebol/Nacional/1a_liga/Benfica/interior.aspx?content_id=350909 4 February 2016 Record 21 July 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20150402193256/http://www.record.xl.pt/Futebol/Nacional/1a_liga/Benfica/interior.aspx?content_id=350909 2 April 2015 Portuguese21 July 2008 DM Romeu Ribeiro Desportivo das Aves 30 June 2009Quique inicia redução do grupo de trabalho Quique begins squad reduction http://www.record.xl.pt/Futebol/Nacional/1a_liga/Benfica/interior.aspx?content_id=350851 4 February 2016 Record 21 July 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20150402201620/http://www.record.xl.pt/Futebol/Nacional/1a_liga/Benfica/interior.aspx?content_id=350851 2 April 2015 Portuguese22 July 2008 AM Ivan Santos Boavista 30 June 2009Ivan Santos de volta Ivan Santos is back http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/nacional/interior.aspx?content_id=350933 4 February 2016 Record 22 July 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20150402151634/http://www.record.xl.pt/futebol/nacional/interior.aspx?content_id=350933 2 April 2015 Portuguese23 July 2008 MF André Carvalhas Rio Ave 30 June 2009André Carvalhas integra hoje estágio André Carvalhas joins trainings today https://www.record.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-betclic/rio-ave/detalhe/andre-carvalhas-integra-hoje-estagio 25 January 2025 Record 23 July 2008 Portuguese6 August 2008 RB Luís Filipe Braga 30 June 2009Nuno Assis e Luís Filipe confirmados no Vitória Nuno Assis and Luís Filipe secured at Vitória http://www.record.xl.pt/Futebol/Nacional/1a_liga/Benfica/interior.aspx?content_id=352572 4 February 2016 Record 6 August 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20150402141223/http://www.record.xl.pt/Futebol/Nacional/1a_liga/Benfica/interior.aspx?content_id=352572 2 April 2015 Portuguese12 August 200 LB László Sepsi Racing Santander 30 June 2009Racing confirma empréstimo de Sepsi Racing confirms Sepsi's loan http://www.record.xl.pt/Futebol/Nacional/1a_liga/Benfica/interior.aspx?content_id=353511 4 February 2016 Record 12 August 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20150402190927/http://www.record.xl.pt/Futebol/Nacional/1a_liga/Benfica/interior.aspx?content_id=353511 2 April 2015 Portuguese22 August 2008 CB Rafik Halliche Nacional 30 June 2009Trio de certificados já chegou Trio of certificates has arrived http://www.record.xl.pt/Futebol/Nacional/1a_liga/Nacional/interior.aspx?content_id=355208 4 February 2016 Record 22 August 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20150402124439/http://www.record.xl.pt/Futebol/Nacional/1a_liga/Nacional/interior.aspx?content_id=355208 2 April 2015 Portuguese29 August 2008 CB Edcarlos Fluminense 31 December 2009Benfica anuncia empréstimo de Edcarlos ao Fluminense por um ano e meio Benfica loans Edcarlos to Fluminense for one and half years http://globoesporte.globo.com/Esportes/Noticias/Times/Fluminense/0,,MUL741744-9866,00-BENFICA+ANUNCIA+EMPRESTIMO+DE+EDCARLOS+AO+FLUMINENSE+POR+UM+ANO+E+MEIO.html 4 February 2016 GloboEsporte 29 August 2008 Portuguese19 December 2008 ST Marcel Vissel Kobe 31 December 2009Marcel ruma ao Japão Marcel heads off to Japan http://www.record.xl.pt/Futebol/Nacional/1a_liga/Benfica/interior.aspx?content_id=368544 4 February 2016 Record 19 December 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20150402091733/http://www.record.xl.pt/Futebol/Nacional/1a_liga/Benfica/interior.aspx?content_id=368544 2 April 2015 Portuguese5 January 2009 LW Fábio Coentrão Rio Ave 30 June 2009Fábio Coentrão confirmado Fábio Coentrão confirmed http://www.record.xl.pt/Futebol/Nacional/1a_liga/rio_ave/interior.aspx?content_id=369935 4 February 2016 Record 5 January 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20150402113552/http://www.record.xl.pt/Futebol/Nacional/1a_liga/rio_ave/interior.aspx?content_id=369935 2 April 201516 January 2009 ST Ariza Makukula Bolton Wanderers 30 June 2009https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/b/bolton_wanderers/7833246.stm Makukula secures Bolton loan move BBC Sport 16 January 2009 16 January 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090118090959/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/b/bolton_wanderers/7833246.stm 18 January 2009 live2 February 2009 CB Marco Zoro Vitória de Setúbal 30 June 2009Zoro emprestado ao V. Setúbal Zoro loaned to Vitória de Setúbal http://www.record.xl.pt/Futebol/Nacional/1a_liga/Benfica/interior.aspx?content_id=373248 4 February 2016 Record 2 February 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20150402184142/http://www.record.xl.pt/Futebol/Nacional/1a_liga/Benfica/interior.aspx?content_id=373248 2 April 2015 Portuguese2 February 2009 ST Yu Dabao Olivais e Moscavide 30 June 2009Yu Dabao cedido ao Olivais e Moscavide Yu Dabao loaned to Olivais e Moscavide http://www.record.xl.pt/Futebol/Nacional/1a_liga/Benfica/interior.aspx?content_id=373282 4 February 2016 Record 2 February 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20150402094655/http://www.record.xl.pt/Futebol/Nacional/1a_liga/Benfica/interior.aspx?content_id=373282 2 April 2015 Portuguese References Specific General Tovar Rui Miguel Almanaque do Benfica Benfica Almanac Lua de Papel Portugal 2012 978-989-23-2087-8 Category:S.L. Benfica seasons Benfica