Benfica delivered a performance brimming with authority and attacking intent, sweeping aside AVS 3-0 at Estádio Clube Desportivo das Aves in a match that may well mark the beginning of a new, more ruthless chapter in the club’s history. Three different scorers—Georgiy Sudakov, Vangelis Pavlidis, and Franjo Ivanović—found the net, offering a tantalizing glimpse of the depth and diversity now at manager Roger Schmidt’s disposal.

Benfica’s Attack Redefined

The match opened with AVS showing brief flashes of ambition, but Benfica’s organization and technical superiority were evident from the outset. The breakthrough came in first-half stoppage time, when Georgiy Sudakov capped off a slick passing sequence by coolly slotting home in the 45th minute plus three, breaking AVS’s resistance and setting the tone for the second half.

Benfica’s dominance was reflected in their possession and chance creation. AVS, languishing near the bottom of the table with just one point from five matches, rarely threatened, and the visitors kept them pinned back with relentless pressing and purposeful movement. The statistics underline the gulf in class: Benfica have now scored 10 goals and conceded just two in their opening four league matches, while AVS have conceded 11 and scored only four in five games.

Pavlidis and Ivanović Seal the Rout

The second goal arrived shortly after the break, when Vangelis Pavlidis converted from the penalty spot in the 59th minute—his composure emblematic of Benfica’s growing confidence. The Greek forward, signed to add punch to Schmidt’s attack, has quickly established himself as a reliable scorer and focal point up front.

Just five minutes later, Franjo Ivanović put the result beyond doubt with a clinical finish in the 64th minute—a strike that showcased Benfica’s ability to sustain their intensity and exploit spaces as AVS’s defensive lines stretched under pressure.

With the result secure, Schmidt had the luxury of rotating his squad, giving minutes to emerging talents like Andreas Schjelderup and Gianluca Prestianni, while resting key starters for the campaign ahead.

Key Player Performances

• Georgiy Sudakov: His goal before halftime was not only technically accomplished but psychologically decisive—a moment that broke AVS’s spirit and allowed Benfica to dictate the pace after the interval.
• Vangelis Pavlidis: Led the line with authority, winning the penalty and dispatching it with minimal fuss. His movement and link-up play created headaches for the AVS back line throughout.
• Franjo Ivanović: Demonstrated instinctive finishing and a willingness to work between the lines, complementing Pavlidis and Sudakov in a front three that looks increasingly formidable.

AVS’s Struggles Continue

For AVS, the defeat was another sobering reminder of the step up in quality required to compete with Portugal’s elite. Their attack registered only sporadic moments of promise, failing to test Benfica’s goalkeeper meaningfully, and the defensive lapses that led to all three goals will be a concern for manager Jorge Costa. AVS’s season is now at a crossroads, with relegation fears already looming.

The Big Picture: Title Ambitions Realigned

This victory is more than just three points—it signals a subtle but significant shift in Benfica’s approach. After a summer of strategic acquisitions and a renewed tactical focus on direct attacking play, Schmidt’s side now possesses the kind of depth and versatility that has eluded them in recent campaigns. Sudakov’s intelligence, Pavlidis’s cutting edge, and Ivanović’s energy are emblematic of a squad built not just to compete for the title, but to dominate matches against weaker opposition.

Moreover, the timing of this result—coming off a disappointing Champions League defeat to Qarabag FK—suggests that Benfica are capable of compartmentalizing setbacks and refocusing on domestic priorities. The ease with which they dismantled AVS, away from home, should send a message to rivals Porto and Sporting: this is a Benfica team with the firepower and mentality to reclaim the Primeira Liga crown.

What Comes Next

As the league table takes shape, Benfica’s consistency against lower-ranked teams will be critical. With four wins and one draw from five matches, their early form is setting the benchmark for the rest of the division. AVS, meanwhile, must regroup quickly if they are to avoid being cast adrift at the foot of the table.

The real story, though, is Benfica’s evolving identity—no longer content to win by attrition, they are embracing a philosophy that couples tactical discipline with attacking flair. If Schmidt’s men continue in this vein, this could be the season that Benfica not only reclaim the title, but do so with a swagger reminiscent of their glory years.

If September 20th’s clinical dismantling of AVS is any indication, Portugal’s football landscape may be witnessing the birth of a new Benfica dynasty.