At half time there appeared only one winner of this match. Benfica were good value for their two-goal lead constructed early on through strikes by man-of-the-match Andreas Schjelderup, from the penalty spot, and Richard Ríos.
In an opening 45 minutes completely dominated by the visitors, Franjo Ivanovic also had a goal ruled out for offside. Another effort by the lively Serbian was cleared off the line by Justin de Haas, and Ivanovic – preferred over the usual starting striker Pavlidis – again came desperately close to scoring on the stroke of half time but his shot whistled inches past the post.
Otamendi sees red
The game turned on a red card shown to Benfica captain Nicolás Otamendi in the 55th minute for a violent foul on Mathias de Amorim. Moments later Famalicão captain Gustavo Sá missed a header from point-blank range when it seemed easier to score.
The hosts were now well on top and a fine goal by Portugal U21 midfielder Mathias de Amorim further energised the home supporters.
It was no surprise when substitute Umar Abubakar levelled the scores in the 78th minute.
With plenty of injury time on the cards after a long stoppage as one of the officials had to be replaced due to injury, Famalicão sensed victory and a chance to boost their chances of finishing fifth to earn a slot in the UEFA Conference League was there for the taking.
Rodrigo Pinheiro was nearly the hero for Fama when his spectacular long-range effort crashed off the underside of the bar, but Benfica held on for the draw.
Mourinho lashes out at officiating
José Mourinho expressed his fury at what he perceived as erroneous officiating in the flash interview. “This game is a good reflection of what has happened in this championship,” said the visibly irritated manager.
“I want to give my congratulations to FC Porto. They are just champions. I want to give congratulations to my players for the bravery this showed up until today. And especially today.
“We will give everything we’ve got to achieve a miracle of finishing in second place ahead of Sporting. We will try to make this miracle happen.”
Consequences
The draw means FC Porto will be crowned champions of Portugal tonight provided they do not lose their home match against Alverca.
Benfica move three points ahead of Sporting. The Lions have a game in hand, against Vitória on Monday, but José Mourinho’s team have the head-to-head advantage over their Lisbon rivals so still depend only on themselves to finish second.
In the race for the last European berth, Famalicão are three points clear of Gil Vicente but have played a game more with Gil holding the head-to-head advantage.
