The upcoming Liga Portugal clash between Santa Clara and Benfica promises to be a fascinating encounter between two sides living very different realities. The visitors remain unbeaten in the league and continue to chase the top spot, while the hosts are struggling near the relegation zone. This match in the Azores could prove decisive for both teams’ ambitions — Benfica aiming to stay in the title race, and Santa Clara desperate to halt a worrying losing streak.

Santa Clara’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Santa Clara enter this fixture in a difficult moment, having lost four consecutive matches, including a 1-0 defeat away to Estrela Amadora on February 7. The team sits 16th in the Liga Portugal standings, occupying the relegation play-off position with 17 points. Their record so far reads 4 wins, 5 draws, and 12 defeats, with an average of 0.8 goals scored and 1.2 conceded per game. Despite their struggles, the Azorean side have shown some resilience at home, avoiding defeat at half time in 19 of their last 21 home matches.

Under 3.5 total goals have been recorded in 29 of Santa Clara’s last 31 league games, confirming their tendency toward low-scoring encounters. However, their defensive issues remain evident, as they have conceded in each of their last five home fixtures. The team’s main challenge continues to be efficiency in front of goal, as they often create chances but fail to convert them. The arrival of a new coach has brought tactical adjustments, but results are yet to follow.

• Last 5 matches: 0 wins, 1 draw, 4 defeats


• Average goals scored: 1.0 | Average conceded: 2.0


• Under 3.5 goals in 37 of their last 40 matches


• Haven’t lost at half time in 19 of their last 21 home games

Benfica’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Benfica approach this trip to the Azores full of confidence after a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Alverca on February 8. The Lisbon giants remain unbeaten in Liga Portugal, with a record of 14 wins, 7 draws, and no defeats. They have scored an average of 2.1 goals per match while conceding just 0.6 — the best defensive record in the league. Their consistency has been remarkable, as they have not lost in their last 21 league games and have avoided defeat at half time in 20 of their last 21.

In their last five matches, Benfica have collected three wins, one draw, and one defeat across all competitions, maintaining a strong attacking rhythm. Away from home, they have been efficient, scoring two or more goals in seven of their last ten away fixtures. The team’s focus will be on maintaining momentum before their upcoming European challenge, but they cannot afford to drop points if they wish to keep pressure on the league leaders.

• Last 5 matches: 3 wins, 1 draw, 1 defeat


• Average goals scored: 2.0 | Average conceded: 1.0


• Unbeaten in 21 Liga Portugal matches


• Won at half time in 8 of their last 13 matches

Santa Clara vs Benfica Analysis and Prediction

The contrast between the two teams could not be clearer. Santa Clara are fighting to escape the relegation zone, while Benfica are chasing the title. The visitors’ attacking power and defensive solidity make them clear favorites, especially against a side that has lost its last three home games. Historically, Benfica have dominated this fixture, winning four of the last five meetings and averaging 2.4 goals per match against the Azorean side. The previous encounter ended 1-1, but the current form suggests a different outcome this time.

Given Santa Clara’s difficulties in scoring and Benfica’s efficiency in both boxes, a comfortable away win seems the most likely scenario. The visitors’ unbeaten run and superior squad depth should allow them to control the game from start to finish. However, Santa Clara’s tendency to keep matches tight could limit the scoreline, especially in the first half.

Statistically, the match leans toward a low to moderate goal count, with Under 3.5 goals appearing frequently in Santa Clara’s games. Yet, Benfica’s attacking form suggests that at least two goals from the visitors are plausible. The balance between these trends points to a controlled but decisive performance from the away side.

Santa Clara vs Benfica prediction by BetMines:
Benfica win (2) with 62% probability.