Benfica Takes Crucial Step Towards Champions League Group Stage
Benfica Soars to Victory with Pavlidis' Decisive Strike In a thrilling Champions League play-off match, Benfica secured a crucial away win against Monaco, thanks to a brilliant second-half strike from Vangelis Pavlidis. The Greek forward's goal proved to be the difference-maker as Benfica dominated the 10-man Monaco team. End-to-End Action in the First Half The first half was a closely contested affair, with both teams creating scoring opportunities. The pace of the game was frenetic, with end-to-end action keeping the spectators on the edge of their seats. Monaco's Aleksandr Golovin had a particularly promising chance in the ninth minute, but Benfica goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin made a spectacular save to deny the Russian midfielder. Despite the pressure from Monaco, Benfica's defense held firm, and they began to gain more possession as the half progressed. Pavlidis was a constant threat to Monaco's defense, using his pace and agility to cause problems for the oppos...