Benfica – Chelsea

The Benfica-Chelsea rivalry, though not extensive in terms of frequency, has produced some memorable encounters, primarily centered around European competitions. It’s a relatively recent rivalry, solidified by key clashes in the Europa League and Champions League.

The most significant meeting is arguably the 2013 Europa League final in Amsterdam. Chelsea, fresh off their unexpected Champions League triumph the previous year, found themselves in the Europa League after an early Champions League exit. Benfica, under Jorge Jesus, were looking to cap off a strong season with a European trophy. The match was a tense affair, tightly contested with chances at both ends. Fernando Torres put Chelsea ahead, but Oscar Cardozo equalized for Benfica with a penalty. The game appeared headed for extra time, until Branislav Ivanović dramatically headed in a corner in the dying moments, securing a 2-1 victory for Chelsea. This win denied Benfica a coveted European title and further fueled a sense of frustration for the Portuguese side against their English counterparts.

Beyond the final, Chelsea and Benfica have met in the Champions League quarter-finals on two occasions, in 2012 and 2012. In both instances, Chelsea emerged victorious. In 2012, Chelsea won both legs, 1-0 in Lisbon and 2-1 at Stamford Bridge, en route to their historic Champions League victory. In 2012, Chelsea secured a 1-0 win away and a 2-1 victory at home.

These matches, especially the 2013 Europa League final, have created a narrative of Chelsea consistently thwarting Benfica’s European ambitions. While Chelsea has the upper hand in terms of head-to-head results, the games have generally been close and hard-fought. The rivalry, although not as deeply rooted as some other European clashes, carries a certain weight due to the high stakes involved, particularly the Europa League final. Benfica fans remember Ivanovic’s late goal with bitterness, while Chelsea supporters cherish it as another chapter in their European success story.

The contrast in the clubs’ recent histories also adds to the dynamic. Chelsea’s consistent presence in the Champions League and their trophy haul over the last two decades contrast with Benfica’s struggles to replicate their past European glory. This disparity in success further intensifies the rivalry, with Benfica eager to overcome Chelsea and reclaim their status as a European powerhouse.