Benfica defeated Celtic 4-1 at the Estádio do SL Benfica in the UEFA Europa League, featuring a brace from Duran alongside goals from Bah and Pavlidis.
Benfica cruise past Celtic in Lisbon masterclass
Benfica delivered a masterclass at the Estádio do SL Benfica, securing a commanding 4-1 victory over Celtic in their UEFA Europa League Matchday 2 encounter. Backed by a roaring home crowd in Lisbon, the Portuguese giants put on an exhibition of attacking football, overwhelming their Scottish opponents with clinical finishing and controlling the tempo from the opening whistle to claim all three points in style. See also: Union SG held to 1-1 draw by Real Sociedad at Den Dreef
Benfica take command in first half
The hosts started the match with incredible energy, pressing Celtic deep into their own half and immediately putting the visitors under pressure. The breakthrough arrived early in the 5th minute when Duran stepped up to convert a penalty, giving Benfica a 1-0 lead.
Benfica refused to take their foot off the gas. In the 23rd minute, Bah doubled the advantage with a brilliant finish after a clever team move. Duran struck again in the 36th minute, firing home his second of the night to send Benfica into the halftime break with a dominant 3-0 cushion.
Pavlidis seals comprehensive win
Celtic came out with more intensity after the interval and managed to pull a goal back in the 63rd minute when Duran found the back of the net for the visitors. However, any hopes of a dramatic comeback were quickly snuffed out by Benfica’s solid defensive organization and game management.
As the match entered its closing stages, Benfica added the finishing touch to a stellar performance. In the 89th minute, Vangelis Pavlidis scored a fantastic fourth goal, capping off the rout and sealing a comprehensive 4-1 victory for the home side.