One more title, second triumph in a row. No surprises if we think at the pre-season forecasts, as Benfica was supposed to be there, defending and revalidating its title. But futsal is not 100% predictable, and for a quite significant part of the season the Lisbon "aguias" were forced to live in the shadow (though they began the season thrashing Braga/AAUM in the Super Cup) by the unbelievable season of the underdog Belenenses, leader of the regular season until the 25th round (and they would have conquered it without the 1st round match lost by committee decision vs Instituto D. João V). No regrets for Alipio Matos, their guys were great until the end. Another mention goes to the other side of Lisbon futsal, as the Sporting leões conquered an unforgettable Portuguese Cup edition, after defeating opponents like Benfica, Freixieiro, Belenenses and FJA, what a series!
And what about Benfica? The turning point came in march, when Beto Aranha replaced Adil Amarante, who followed Japanese sirens. The new brazilian coach promised to conquer the title and kept his word, as Benfica closed the regular season with an unexpected first place and then sealed the second title in a row through a winning play off-series, with Alpendorada, Sporting and Belenenses playing the victims role. Ricardinho and mates were in need of the third final to overcome the fierce competition of the club from the Santa Maria de Belém's zone of Lisbon. The third and deciding final registered an extreme balance: first half closed with no goals, second half with Arnaldo and Jardel to take both team through the extra time. Then Benfica again ahead with the "magic" Ricardinho and double by Jardel for the second equalizer. Finally, the decisive run of the aguias, signed by Arnaldo and Cesar Paulo, the party could begin!

Tribute to Andrè Lima
A magnificent player, the big name of Portuguese futsal during a wonderful career. Andrè Lima ended his player life with one more title and is now ready to begin a new experience as Benfica's head coach. Good luck Andrè, and parabéns craque!

Beto Aranha, poison against players and club. Aguias reaction
It seemed immediately clear, after the season ending, that the Beto Aranha experience on the Benfica's bench was over, in favour of the club idol Andrè Lima. What was not expected is the polemical epilogue, with Beto Aranha's charges against some players (Ricardinho, Zè Maria, Miguel Almeida and Cesar Paulo) and staff members (Joao Pedro Ferreira) of Benfica, and their strong opposition against the brazilian coach. That's life.

Pedrinho, known face. Miguel Almeida to leave?
The new aguias plantel should not experience many changes, as the most relevant will be registered on the technical guide. The brazilian pivot Pedrinho, former Barcelona, is back in Lisbon after his previous experience in the 02/03 season. According to Futsal Portugal web site, Miguel Almeida won't be part of the Benfica 08/09, though his contract with the portuguese champions is not yet expired.

Below, have a look at some pictures from the third match final between Benfica and Belenenses!


Futsalplanet Related Items

-> Regular season 07/08: all results and standing

-> Play off series: second triumph for Benfica!

-> Portuguese Cup, great title for Sporting!

-> Portuguese Futsal Story




































Posted by Luca Ranocchiari --> luca.ranocchiari@futsalplanet.com