Benfica is making some serious changes to their starting eleven as they prepare to face Alverca in the fourth round of the Portuguese League. Coach Bruno Lage is known for tweaking the team, and this match is no exception. Get ready for some surprises!
Key Player Updates
Samuel Soares will be guarding the net, giving Trubin a well-deserved rest. Schjeldrup is back in the starting lineup after Akturkoglu's move to Fenerbahçe. Ivanovic steps up, replacing Pavlidis as the main striker, and Tomás Araújo fills in for António Silva in the central defence.
Benfica's Starting Eleven:
Here's how Benfica is expected to line up:
- Samuel Soares
- Dedić
- Otamendi
- Tomás Araújo
- Dahl
- Enzo
- Richard Ríos
- Aursnes
- Schjelderup
- Leandro Barreiro
- Ivanovic
Alverca's New Hope: Matheus Mendes
Alverca, recently promoted to the top division, is pinning their hopes on a new goalkeeper, Matheus Mendes. The 26-year-old, formerly with Atlético-MG, is set to make his debut against Benfica. This is his first experience playing football in Europe, and he's eager to impress.
Alverca is currently 15th in the league, struggling with only one draw and two losses. They're hoping that Mendes can solidify their defence and turn their season around. He's got a big challenge ahead of him, facing one of Portugal's biggest clubs in his first match!
Mendes spent time on loan with CSA and América before Alverca acquired him permanently. Now, he has the opportunity to prove himself on the big stage.