Benfica’s Last-16 Ticket: A Thriller in Lisbon
In a Champions League classic that will be remembered for years to come, Benfica secured their spot in the last 16 with a thrilling 3-3 draw against AS Monaco at the Estádio da Luz. The Portuguese side’s resilient performance, capped by Orkun Kökçü’s clinical finish in the 84th minute, clinched a 4-3 aggregate victory, setting the stage for an exciting next round against either Liverpool or Barcelona. The match was a true test of Benfica’s mettle, as they faced a highly competitive and dynamic Monaco team throughout the 90 minutes plus added time.
Early Goal Sets the Tone
Kerem Aktürkoglu’s early goal in the 22nd minute set the tone for a night of high drama. Despite being against the run of play, Aktürkoglu capitalized on a brilliant through ball from Vangelis Pavlidis, putting Benfica ahead 1-0 on the night and extending their aggregate lead to two goals. However, Monaco quickly asserted themselves as the better side, creating numerous chances and hitting the woodwork more than once. The French team’s determination and skill were on full display, and they managed to level the score before halftime through a goal by Takumi Minamino.
Monaco’s Comeback in the Second Half
The second half saw an even more intense Monaco, who took the lead just a few minutes after the restart. Eliesse Ben Seghir, who had been a standout performer for the visitors, delivered a stunning finish to put Monaco ahead on the night and reduce the aggregate deficit. The momentum shifted decisively in favor of the French side, who continued to press and create scoring opportunities. Benfica, however, remained undaunted, and the game was far from over.
Pavlidis Equalizes from the Spot
In the 76th minute, the game took another dramatic turn when Vangelis Pavlidis stepped up to take a penalty for Benfica. With nerves of steel, the Greek midfielder converted the spot kick, bringing the score to 2-2 on the night and tying the aggregate at 3-3. The atmosphere in the stadium was electric, with both sets of fans sensing a potential comeback or a monumental victory. However, Monaco were not yet done, and just seconds after coming on as a substitute, George Ilenikhena scored a quick counter-attack goal in the 81st minute, putting Monaco back on level terms in the aggregate.
Kökçü’s Heroic Finish
The game reached its climax in the 84th minute when Kökçü, who had been a key player for Benfica, scored a crucial goal. His clinical finish put Benfica ahead on the night and back in the driver’s seat, albeit at a personal cost as he injured himself in the process. The goal was a testament to Kökçü’s skill and the team’s determination to secure their place in the next round. The stadium erupted in cheers, and the celebrations were just as intense as the game itself.
Final Moments and VAR Drama
As the final whistle loomed, Monaco threw everything they had at Benfica, hoping to level the aggregate score once more. A lengthy VAR check for a potential penalty to Benfica added even more drama, extending the additional time from seven to almost ten minutes. Despite Monaco’s relentless efforts, Benfica held firm, and the final score of 3-3 on the night and 4-3 on aggregate was enough to send them through. The home fans, exhausted but jubilant, celebrated a hard-earned victory that showcased the resilience and spirit of their team. Benfica’s next challenge will be a monumental one, facing either Liverpool or Barcelona in the last 16.
