Porto refused to disappoint the home fans at the Estádio do Dragão, delivering a composed performance to defeat rivals Benfica 1-0 and secure their place in the final four of the 2026 Taca de Portugal.
The Dragons entered the match as the clear favorites given their unbeaten domestic form and seven-match winning streak. Francesco Farioli’s squad controlled the tempo from the opening whistle, and it didn’t take long for the pressure to pay off. In the 15th minute, Polish defender Jan Bednarek rose highest in the box to connect with a corner, powering a header past Anatoliy Trubin for the game’s only goal.
While Benfica managed several dangerous opportunities to equalize before the break, they were unable to capitalize. The second half proved to be a tactical, defensive struggle; Porto effectively killed the game’s rhythm, neutralizing Benfica’s attack and protecting their narrow lead until the final whistle.
With the victory, Porto added another chapter to their historic rivalry and kept their hunt for the cup alive. They will now face the winner of the February 4th matchup between Sporting CP and AVS Futebol SAD in the semifinals.
