Benfica have always been known as a selling club, producing great young talents that are then sold for hefty fees, but can this be the year they also make a significant push in the Champions League?
Currently, they are second in Liga Portugal with 53 points, three points behind Sporting CP. However, they have one game in hand that could put them level with Sporting CP for first place, as they take on Barcelona in the Round of 16 of the UCL.
In this tactical analysis, well look at Bruno Lages tactics at SL Benfica this season, which have them pushing for a Portuguese title and possibly a long run in the UCL.
If they can get by Barcelona in the second leg, anything is possible, following a 1-0 defeat at home in the first leg through Raphinhas goal.
Bruno Lage Philosophy
Bruno Lages tactical philosophy at Benfica is built on fluid attacking play, high pressing, and quick transitions.
He likes his team to emphasise movement and intelligent positioning to create numerical superiority in key areas of the pitch.
Lage often deploys a 4-3-3 system that morphs into a 2-3-5 shape in possession, allowing for width and overloads in attacking zones.
He also likes to prioritise counterpressing immediately after losing possession, ensuring they remain on the front foot.
Defensively, Lages Benfica are compact, pressing aggressively to win the ball high up the pitch.
Benfica Build-Up Play
In the build-up play, it looks like a 3-3-4 formation, with a back three looking to progress the ball into the next phase.
The three midfielders in front consist of two players operating in the 8/10 area, while a single pivot acts as the link-up play connection in the build-up.
The four attackers at the
