Rio Ave Women — SL Benfica, Campeonato Nacional Feminino

Benfica secured a 2:0 victory against Rio Ave in the second round of the women's national championship on Thursday evening. The result leaves Benfica at the top of the table with a perfect record, while Rio Ave remain in eighth place. Both sides had faced each other earlier in the season, with Benfica winning 1:0 in May.

The statistics tell their own story. Benfica controlled possession at 66 per cent and generated 135 attacks compared to Rio Ave's 94. They registered nine shots on target against just one for the home side. Rio Ave managed four shots off target but could not find the back of the net.

Benfica's form has been relentless. They have played 18 matches without a defeat, recording 15 wins and three draws. Their last five outings have all ended in victories, including a comprehensive 3:0 win over Racing Power Women earlier this month. Rio Ave, by contrast, have suffered nine losses from 18 games and sit 31 points behind their opponents.

The visitors were dominant in the air from set plays, winning seven corners to Rio Ave's four. Both teams received one yellow card each, with no red cards shown. Benfica's goal kicks totalled seven against Rio Ave's 14, suggesting the home side spent more time defending their own area.

This result extends Benfica's unbeaten run and keeps them firmly at the summit of the division. Rio Ave's campaign continues to struggle, with only four victories from their 18 matches. The gap between the two sides in the table now stands at 31 points.