Tondela Host Benfica in Crucial Primeira Liga Fixture
LISBON, 1 February 2026 – Relegation-battling CD Tondela face a formidable test this evening as they welcome high-flying SL Benfica to the Estádio João Cardoso. The visitors, fresh from a dramatic European victory, will look to maintain their unbeaten run and solidify their position in the top three.
Match Context & Recent Form
This fixture presents a stark contrast in fortunes. Tondela, languishing near the foot of the table, are embroiled in a survival fight. Their opponents, Benfica, sit comfortably in third place and arrive with significant momentum. Under manager José Mourinho, Benfica are unbeaten in their last five matches across all competitions. This impressive run includes a comprehensive 4-0 league victory over Estrela da Amadora on 25 January and a sensational, last-gasp 2-1 win against Real Madrid in the Champions League, sealed by a 98th-minute goal from goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin.
Tondela’s form provides a grim outlook for the hosts. They have managed just one win in their last five outings and will be wary of the historical head-to-head record. In the most recent meeting between these sides at this venue, Benfica emerged as 3-1 victors.
Key Facts & Team Statistics
| Metric | Detail |
|---|---|
| Competition | Liga Portugal Betclic (Primeira Liga) |
| Date & Kick-off | Sunday 1 February 2026, 20:30 (Local Time) |
| Venue | Estádio João Cardoso, Tondela |
| Benfica’s League Position | 3rd (45 points after 19 matches) |
| Benfica’s Last Result | Benfica 4 – 0 Estrela da Amadora (25 Jan) |
| Recent H2H at this Venue | Benfica 3 – 1 Tondela |
| Benfica Manager | José Mourinho |
Managerial Spotlight
Benfica boss José Mourinho enters this fixture in high spirits following his side’s extraordinary European triumph. In the build-up to that match, his pre-game press conference was dominated by his affectionate yet competitive relationship with Real Madrid manager Álvaro Arbeloa, a former player of his. Mourinho described Arbeloa as “one of my favourite players on a personal level” and “like a child to me,” highlighting the intense personal narratives that often colour his high-profile fixtures. His focus will now be entirely on navigating a potential banana skin in Tondela.
What to Expect
Tondela, fighting for every point, are likely to adopt a compact, defensive shape and look to frustrate Benfica. The visitors, boasting greater quality and confidence, will be expected to dominate possession and create the majority of chances. Benfica’s recent goal-scoring form, netting four in their last league outing, suggests they have the firepower to break down stubborn defences. All signs point towards an encounter where Benfica’s superior class should ultimately tell, but the pressure of Tondela’s predicament makes them a dangerous opponent.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does Tondela vs Benfica kick off?
The Primeira Liga match is scheduled to begin at 8.30pm local time on Sunday 1 February 2026.
What is Benfica’s recent form like?
Benfica are in excellent form, unbeaten in their last five matches. This run includes a 4-0 league win and a dramatic last-minute 2-1 victory over Real Madrid in the Champions League.
Who is Benfica’s manager?
The Benfica head coach is the experienced Portuguese tactician José Mourinho.
Where can I follow live updates for this match?
Live score updates and commentary will be available through various sports media outlets and the official Liga Portugal broadcasters.