Hockey: Benfica and Sporting triumph before the derby at Luz.

Benfica emerged victorious from the battle at Carvalhos, in Vila Nova de Gaia, winning 9-5 in the 10th round of the regular season of the League. On Wednesday night, Zé Miranda opened the scoring in the seventh minute for the Eagles, followed by a goal from Diogo Rafael in the 16th minute. After Rúben Sousa reduced the deficit in the 21st minute, João Rodrigues made it 3-1 from the penalty spot in the 22nd minute.

Before halftime, Afonso Lima made it 3-2 in the 25th minute.

In the second half, João Rodrigues scored again in the 27th and 29th minutes. Although Vasco Casanova and Rúben Sousa reduced the deficit in the 34th and 35th minutes, respectively, João Rodrigues made it 6-4 in the 36th minute.

Until the end, amidst yellow, blue, and red cards, Gonçalo Pinto (40m) extended the Eagles’ lead, and João Rodrigues reached five goals and his 12th goal of the championship in the 44th minute. In the final moments, Afonso Lima reduced the deficit (8-5), while Viti made it 9-5 in the 50th minute.

Thus, Benfica continues with only victories in the League, that is, with 30 points, five ahead of Sporting. The Eagles host the Lions on January 4th (3pm). In turn, Carvalhos remains in 13th and second-to-last place, with four points, two away from the safety zone.

Also on Wednesday, Sporting triumphed in their visit to Sp. Tomar (3-0), with goals from Nolito Romero (12m) and Danilo Rampulla (14 and 38m). The Lions remain in second place, with 25 points, one ahead of Óquei de Barcelos (3rd). As for Sp. Tomar, they occupy 6th place with 13 points.

In the third and final match of the evening, Óquei de Barcelos triumphed at home against Hóquei de Braga (4th), by 7-3. Next up is a visit to Carvalhos on January 4th.

On Friday, FC Porto (5th) hosts Sanjoanense (7th) at 8:30 pm. A victory would see the Dragons draw level with Hóquei de Braga (4th). The 10th round runs until the evening of December 22nd.