Benfica Draws 3-3 With Monaco To Secure Place In Champions League Last 16

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Orkun Kokcu's late equaliser secured Benfica's spot in the Champions League last 16 after a thrilling 3-3 draw with Monaco. Benfica advanced with a 4-3 aggregate win. The Portuguese side led 1-0 from the first leg and extended their advantage in Lisbon when Kerem Akturkoglu scored from close range, thanks to Vangelis Pavlidis' precise pass.

Monaco quickly responded, levelling the score through Takumi Minamino's straightforward finish. Eliesse Ben Seghir then put Monaco ahead with a spectacular strike. However, Pavlidis converted a penalty to bring Benfica back on level terms. Substitute George Ilenikhena restored Monaco's lead, but Kokcu's goal in the 84th minute, assisted by Alvaro Carreras, ensured Benfica's progression.

Benfica's Champions League campaign this season has been filled with goals. In their 10 matches, they have seen 36 goals scored (21 for and 15 against), averaging 3.6 goals per game. This is only surpassed by their 2022-23 season when they averaged 3.9 goals per match with a total of 39 goals in 10 games.

The recent match against Monaco featured a total of 25 shots, with Benfica taking 10 and Monaco attempting 15. The hosts generated an expected goals tally of 1.9 compared to Monaco's 1.26, highlighting the attacking nature of the game.

Vangelis Pavlidis has been instrumental for Benfica this season in the Champions League. He has contributed to nine goals in just ten matches, scoring seven and assisting two more. This achievement surpasses Joao Mario’s record of eight goal involvements during the previous season.

This season’s performance highlights Pavlidis as a key player for the team, consistently contributing to their success on the European stage.

Benfica’s thrilling encounter with Monaco not only showcased their resilience but also highlighted their attacking prowess throughout this Champions League campaign.