Patience, efficiency, and hard work? Yes, and three more points!

MATCH HIGHLIGHTS

A brace from João Mário, to which Musa added one goal, culminated in the triumph of Benfica by 0-3, against Arouca, in the game from matchday 18 of the Liga Bwin. A night marked by resilience and effectiveness, rewarded with three more fair points.

After the away victory at Paços de Ferreira (0-2), a new trip to the North of the country, in which was the third consecutive away match.

With two changes compared to the last starting XI, the gaffer chose Odysseas, Bah, António Silva, Otamendi, Grimaldo, Florentino, Chiquinho, Neres, João Mário, Aursnes and Gonçalo Guedes for this Tuesday evening, January 31, in Arouca. 

In the 25th minute, to the joy of the many Benfiquistas in the stands... and what a goal! A good attacking play: it all started with a throw-in by Grimaldo, Florentino touched the ball and returned it, the Spanish full-back passed to Aursnes, a combination with Neres and an assist for to João Mário to shoot for the 0-1. It was the 9th goal of the eagles' number 20 in the Liga Bwin.

Minute 55, the 0-2 ... and another beautiful attacking play from the reds, with several protagonists, at the first touch, in the sequel signed by João Mário.

Now try to imagine: Florentino, Guedes, João Mário, Guedes, Aursnes (letting the ball pass)... and the final shot from the number 20 in the penalty box, with his left foot and dressed in class! A dozen goals in the Liga Bwin for the Portuguese international!

Already with Musa on the pitch (he came off at 67' to replace Guedes), as the most direct reference in front, the 0-3 to remove any doubts, not that there were any.

In the 80th minute, Aursnes passed to Neres in the attack, but the Brazilian ended up falling in the area after Mateus Quaresma's touch... And who appeared? Coming from behind, Musa was quick to decide and shot hard into the back of the net. It was 0-3 and the Croatian's fourth goal in the Liga Bwin.

After three away matches, the return home happens next Saturday, February 4th. Benfica hosts Casa Pia, a game from matchday 19 of the Liga Bwin, with kick-off at 6 pm, at Estádio da Luz.